Dinner at Tiger Mart

When I asked my neighbor recently where they were going for dinner  she said, “Tiger Mart.” I was more than a bit astonished. “I’m sorry, what? Did you say Tiger Mart? As in, the gas station?” Utterly perplexed, I waited to hear the correction and the name of a new restaurant that I hadn’t yet heard of. Instead she said, “Yes, Tiger Mart, at the gas station. They have really good hot dogs.” 

Recently, a friend of mine found out that Tiger Mart carries the largest selection of Amazon hot sauces in all of Cartagena. After hearing yet another friend compliment their prepared food, I decided that it was time I took a trip to Tiger Mart to explore their marketplace and to have a hot dog, of course.

The Tiger Market is its official name, locally it is called Tiger Mart.  It is located just outside of Boca Grande on the road to the Old City on the right. The gas station is popular and so parking can be a challenge if it is packed. I did get lucky the day I went and found parking immediately. While the space is not large, it is well stocked with interesting food items from all over the world.

I found fig cookies from Ireland, cookies from Italy, seasonings from the U.S. and yes, a large selection of Amazon products. (If you go, I highly recommend the Amazon Sweet Chili Pepper Sauce.) One can find pretzels, large bags of walnuts, almonds, large containers of spices and condiments, including mustard (both Dijon and whole seed), and even sprinkles! Also on hand, large jars of strawberry jam, specialty chips and an entire selection of sugar free cookies and treats. 

After taking a few minutes to peruse the shelves, I walked to the counter and asked for a hot dog, there are two ways to have the Perro Caliente, American style or wrapped in a pastry. I chose the American style, I put some mustard and potato crisps on the top and went to sit down. Tiger Mart has conveniently provided small tables with stools for people to sit and enjoy their meal. I found a table, but all the stools were taken. I started to eat standing up when a gentleman immediately offered me his stool, I thanked him profusely in both English and Spanish.  I got comfortable in my seat and took a bite,  it was in fact quite yummy. I was reminded of the kind of hot dogs you would get in a baseball stadium.  I did see other food offered, empanadas and I did see pizza boxes, but didn’t see anyone order a pizza.

I plan to return to Tiger Mart for more Amazon sauces and to try their empanadas, which my friend told me are also quite tasty.