Qaderi Sweetz N Spicez
Located at 1785 S State St, Qaderi Sweetz N Spicez is a sprawling 6,000-square-foot cultural landmark in Salt Lake City’s Liberty Wells neighborhood. Originally founded by the Bano family over 25 years ago in West Valley, this second location is housed in a repurposed O'Reilly Auto Parts building—but the industrial exterior belies a vibrant, fragrant interior that serves as Utah's premier "one-stop" hub for Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern culture.
The State Street Highlights
The "Hidden" Indo-Pak Cafe: Tucked inside the grocery aisles is a small, high-intensity kitchen serving some of the most authentic Desi food in the Beehive State. The Chicken Biryani is a local legend for its massive portions and layered spice profile, while the Haleem (a slow-cooked savory porridge) and fresh Samosas draw crowds during the lunch hour.
The "Wall of Spice" & Bulk Dals: This is widely considered the best place in Salt Lake City for bulk spices. From rare Kashmiri Chili Powder and whole Urad beans to nearly a dozen varieties of lentils and dals, the selection is vast enough to satisfy professional chefs and homesick expats alike.
The Boutique of Curiosities: Beyond food, Qaderi is a cultural library. One entire section is dedicated to hundreds of Indian and Pakistani DVDs, CDs, and traditional clothing. It’s also the local headquarters for Holi Festival supplies, stocking the colorful powders and ceremonial items used for the Hindu "Festival of Colors."
The "Basmati Row": The scale of their rice selection is staggering. You’ll find floor-to-ceiling stacks of premium long-grain Basmati, Masoori, and Jasmine rice in decorative burlap sacks, often at the best per-pound prices in the valley.
Hardware for the Home Chef: If you need a proper Kadai (Indian wok) for your dal or a Degchi for biryani, Qaderi has an entire section of traditional metal cookware and specialized kitchen gadgets that you won't find at standard big-box stores.
Why It’s Unique
Qaderi Sweetz N Spicez is defined by its "Total Immersion." It is uniquely pan-regional; while it leans heavily toward Northern Indian and Pakistani staples, it also stocks a significant variety of ingredients from Bhutan, Burma, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. It is a place where "average Utahns" and the Desi community mingle over Mango Lassis and fresh naan. The Bano family is known for their "radical hospitality," often ordering specific, hard-to-find ingredients upon request for their regulars.
Insider Tip: Because the store doesn't always use modern pricing labels on every shelf, don't be afraid to ask the staff for the cost—they are famously patient and helpful. Also, if you’re a fan of hot tea, their selection of loose-leaf black teas and house-blended chais is one of the most comprehensive in the state.
Essential Information
Address: 1785 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Hours: Open daily from 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Note: The cafe inside typically has slightly shorter hours than the grocery store).
Vibe: Spacious, colorful, and deeply aromatic. It’s a "trip to South Asia" in the middle of Salt Lake City.
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