This is a gem of a place, and the only one that I know of, specializing in Asian groceries in the…read moreWillimantic area. It is unassuming, in the former home of a bagel shop, with the word "Asian" crudely placed in the round part of the bagel sign the only indicator if its presence.
The inside is packed, somewhat haphazardly, with all manner of interesting, mostly Chinese, types of food. They have sauces, rices, spices, teas, frozen foods including a variety of packaged foods, dumplings, and even some vegetables and fish. They also have a variety of Chinese-labelled snack food and candy and a selection of housewares such as utensils and kitchen gadgets. The store is crowded, with boxes of merchandise apparently awaiting shelving, stacked and balanced everywhere, and there is also a rear section, previously the kitchen of the bagel place, that now seems to serve as the "warehouse."
The proprietor is a very friendly and helpful man, and it appears that he runs the place by himself. He is always busy unboxing and shelving merchandise when not waiting on customers. Most of the clientele seem to be Chinese, which is a good sign in my opinion. Because I do not speak or read Chinese, I frequently need to ask him for assistance, and because his English is not great, communication is a challenge, but I appreciate that he has always been helpful and patient with me.
My favorite item is the frozen dumplings brought in from a place in New York City, and I have also had good luck with interesting looking rices and sauces. I have not yet delved in to the frozen whole seafood and meat section, but I have been tempted, and likely will soon.
It compares favorably in my opinion to Chinese grocery stores I patronized when I worked in New Haven, except that they had fresh produce and fish. I think that this place does not have a large enough customer base, or sufficient space, to be able to offer these things.
The store is a little treasure in the Willimantic area, offering merchandise that is not available elsewhere, with friendly service and reasonable prices.