So I know my way around Kim's, Sung's and Ni Hoowa. Twice a month or so, I'll visit them for all of my basic needs: my teas, my noodles, my rice, my kimchi, my natto, and, of course, a delicious selection of Japanese treats, and so forth. I was running short on supplies, saw this place on Google, and decided to check it out.
In short, it's not like Kim's, Sung's, or Ni Hoowa. This store targets a Southeast Asian demographic (but not the Burmese demographic of Vineeta either), and you *won't* find your usual selection of soba, udon, Nishiki, Pocky, Golden Curry, digestive biscuits, natto, and so forth. It does have a limited supply of kimchi and a reasonable selection of tofu, but be aware that you can't come here for that. Shift your mind to appreciate what it does have...
Down its harrowingly narrow aisles are shelves chock full with all manner of Thai noodles, spices, oils, and so forth. Yay. Lining the walls are refrigerators with a small selection of produce and a surprising selection of fish and meat products, from preserved duck eggs to meat balls, huge haunches of beef, and so forth. I will be back to try many of these items, but I'm unfortunately at a loss as to how to prepare any of them. Research time! The staff is fairly helpful and will do their best to guide you towards whatever you may be looking for if a part of their inventory.
Quick aside: Youtube has an excellent video showing a small group performing traditional lion dances in front of the store. It will give you a good sense of what the store looks like and perhaps a sense of the store's commitment to bringing its culture to the community. read more