For those not already aware, there are a number of Russian / Ukrainian / East European stores in the Bell's Market neighborhood of north Philly.

I drive up there every few weeks for delicacies I can't get closer to home, and I use the opportunity to practice Russian in the stores themselves.

The easiest way to drive there from 95 is to take the Cottman exit west to Bustleton, turn north, then drive for a couple of miles. Bell's Market will be on the left, along with the Knizhnik book and music store (look for the big Cyrillic letters).

To me, Bell's is worth a visit on its own. It's a full-sized supermarket, stocked almost completely with imported goods mostly from Russia and Eastern Europe (or locally made in the store or nearby), all at neighborhood prices.

Further north along and near Bustleton are some other stores and markets. I also like to visit Petrovsky's market a few miles north of Bell's, along with the music store there (one of many in the area), and to stop at the Stolovaya cafe for a nice meal (last time it was kasha and Riba po Moskovski, which I've decided I need to learn to make.

FYI. Na zdarovye!

Malcolm