A tip of the bag boy's cap to the banner year brought to us by Dierbergs (colossal new store in Des Peres, complete with a bar, covered parking and escalators) and Schnucks (one word: Schnupons). But no grocer in town inspires home cooks to step out of their culinary comfort zone quite like the humble-yet-awe-inspiring Global Foods Market in Kirkwood. Here shoppers can purchase soy sauce by the gallon, choose from among six kinds of yam, become hypnotized by the array of unpronounceable cheeses or giggle at the Horlicks display. (Get it?) (OK, it's a malted beverage, drunk hot. Still.). And when you reach the register, the tab'll be tiny. Global Foods' prices on herbs, produce and nuts are unrivaled. But it's not all prawn-flavored crackers and vodka-filled chocolates: Plenty of recognizable brands (think Boar's Head, Schlafly, Billy Goat Chip Company) fill the shelves as well. Still, don't be surprised if you leave with an impulse buy — such as a package of wee Indian cucumbers, simply because they're adorable. Or a six-pack of Horlicks.