When we were living in the States, we never gave much thought to things like Dr. Pepper, Strawberry Nesquik, Kraft Mac and Cheese, Warheads, or even candy corn. These treats were always just a short walk to the nearest supermarket away. But since moving to Argentina, getting our hands on U.S. food products has become a lot more challenging.
Fortunately, distributors in Buenos Aires have started importing—or let’s be honest, smuggling—these tasty "contrabands" into the country, giving us a way to satisfy our cravings.
The only downside? The shipping costs. Getting items sent from Buenos Aires to Córdoba City often ends up costing nearly as much as the products themselves.
Thankfully, we’ve found a workaround, thanks to a few local businesses in Córdoba like Snack Club and Almacén de Mario—and occasionally, generous friends willing to bring things over when they travel to Argentina.
We discovered Snack Club last year and were thrilled to find an assortment of American goodies like Haribo Cream Kiss gummies, Dr. Pepper Strawberries & Cream, Cheetos Crunchy, Strawberry Nesquik, and Dr. Pepper Cream Soda and Cherry.
Now, if you live in Argentina, you’ve probably seen Cheetos in stores—but not the crunchy kind. And while Nesquik is available, it usually comes in just two flavors: chocolate and cookies & cream. Let’s face it: Argentina is not exactly known for variety when it comes to snacks.
Of course, Snack Club isn’t our only option. When we’re in the mood for Kraft Mac and Cheese, pumpkin spice, allspice seasoning, or even pepperoni, we turn to a longtime favorite: Almacén de Mario.
This store has been a staple since we first moved to Córdoba. Over the years, it’s provided us with an impressive range of U.S. food items. In addition to the staples I just mentioned, they also stock pretzels and Heinz Sweet Relish—something you’ll never find in a regular Argentine market.
Now, if you’ve read my previous posts, you already know how much we love pizza—especially pepperoni pizza. Unfortunately, that’s not something you come across easily in Argentina, and certainly not in Córdoba. But thanks to Almacén de Mario, we can now make it ourselves, since they’ve started selling pepperoni. No clue how long it’ll stay in stock (these things sell fast!), but we plan to savor every bite while it lasts. 
Most recently, I was able to get my hands on two treats we’ve been craving for over 13 years: Warheads and candy corn. As far as I know, no Argentine distributor currently offers them. Luckily, one of my students—who’s also a good friend—brought over a few bags for us to enjoy.
Of course, there’s still a long list of American snacks we miss and haven’t been able to find here—Sun Chips, Almond Joy, Three Musketeers, and more. But for now, we’re grateful for the taste of home these local gems continue to offer.
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