Boston, a city rich in cultural diversity, boasts an impressive array of Asian grocery stores that cater to every culinary need.
Whether you’re craving fresh produce, exotic spices, or specialty ingredients, these stores offer a treasure trove of options.
Navigating through Boston’s vibrant neighborhoods, one can discover hidden gems that bring the flavors of Asia right to your kitchen.
For food enthusiasts and home cooks alike, finding the perfect Asian grocery store can make all the difference. From Chinatown to Allston, Boston’s grocery scene is a melting pot of cultures, offering everything from Korean kimchi to Japanese matcha.
This guide highlights the ten best Asian grocery stores in Boston, ensuring you won’t miss out on the finest ingredients for your next culinary adventure.
Top 10 Best Asian Grocery Stores in Boston
Boston offers a diverse range of Asian grocery stores where you can find authentic ingredients from across Asia, catering to both local residents and culinary enthusiasts.
Here’s a list of the 10 best Asian grocery stores in Boston:
1. H Mart Burlington
H Mart Burlington stands out as a top destination for Asian groceries in Boston. Located at 3 Old Concord Rd, Burlington, MA, this store offers a broad selection of imported packaged foods and housewares.
Known for its fresh produce and ready-to-serve meals, H Mart provides convenience with in-store shopping and pickup options.
With over 4,987 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, customers consistently praise its variety and quality.
Open daily from 8 AM, H Mart caters to food enthusiasts and home cooks alike, ensuring they find everything from Korean kimchi to Japanese matcha. Visit their website or call (781) 221-4570 for more details.
2. H Mart Quincy
Providing a unique shopping experience, H Mart Quincy is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Asian ingredients.
Located at 101 Falls Blvd, Quincy, MA 02169, this store operates daily from 8 AM, offering convenience for early shoppers.
With a solid 4.3-star rating from 576 reviews, it’s clear that customers appreciate its diverse product range and quality.
Offering fresh produce, seafood, and a variety of imported goods, H Mart Quincy excels in meeting the needs of both home cooks and gourmet chefs.
Shoppers can also enjoy pre-packaged meals and specialty items like Korean kimchi and Japanese snacks.
Also, its spacious layout and organized aisles make finding items a breeze. Visit their official website at hmart.com or call them at (857) 392-5029 for more information.
3. Kam Man Foods
Located at 219 Quincy Ave No.8, Quincy, MA, Kam Man Foods is a cornerstone of Boston’s Asian grocery scene with a 4.2-star rating from 1,990 reviews.
Renowned for its vast selection of authentic Asian products, this store offers everything from fresh produce and seafood to specialty items and hard-to-find ingredients.
Shoppers can explore various aisles stocked with Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian groceries.
Kam Man Foods excels in offering a rich variety of spices, sauces, and packaged goods to elevate your culinary creations.
Also, their in-house bakery provides fresh baked goods, adding to the unique shopping experience.
Conveniently located in President Plaza, this store opens daily at 8:30 AM, ensuring accessibility for both early birds and late shoppers. For more details, visit their website kamman.com or call (617) 328-1533.
4. College Convenience
Located at 281 Huntington Ave in the bustling Huntington Plaza, College Convenience is a go-to spot for Boston’s college students.
This Asian grocery store boasts a 4.1-star rating from 909 reviews, highlighting its popularity and reliable service. Open until 3 AM, it’s perfect for late-night grocery runs.
College Convenience stocks basic groceries, snack food, soft drinks, and more. The store’s convenient location and broad selection make it a favorite among students.
Shoppers can call (617) 267-2009 for any inquiries. The store’s easy access to public transport and proximity to colleges further enhance its appeal.
5. Mekong Market
Mekong Market, located at 863 Western Ave, Lynn, MA 01905, excels as a favored destination for Asian grocery shoppers.
With a stellar 4.5-star rating from 192 reviews, this store is praised for its vast variety of Asian spices, fresh produce, and specialty ingredients.
Shoppers appreciate the in-store shopping experience that opens at 9 AM every Thursday, catering to early birds.
The market’s easy-to-navigate layout and friendly staff add to its appeal, making grocery shopping a pleasant task.
You can visit their website at mekong-market.poi.place or contact them at (781) 584-4022 for more details.
This grocery store brings authentic Asian flavors to the heart of Lynn, complementing Boston’s diverse culinary scene.
6. Good Fortune Supermarket
Good Fortune Supermarket, located at 226-230 Quincy Ave, Quincy, MA, is a noteworthy destination for those seeking an extensive selection of Asian groceries.
With a rating of 3.9 from 779 reviews, it’s recognized for its fresh produce, diverse range of imported snacks, and specialty ingredients essential for Asian cuisines.
Good Fortune offers convenient services like in-store pickup and operates from 8:30 AM on Thursdays. Shoppers appreciate its spacious layout, which makes it easy to navigate and find specific items.
The supermarket’s extensive offerings include fresh seafood, various spices, and authentic Asian sauces. They can be reached at (617) 786-8868 for inquiries, reflecting their commitment to accessible customer service.
7. Hong Kong Supermarket
Hong Kong Supermarket, situated at 1 Brighton Ave, Allston, MA 02134, is a massive store located within the Super 88 Market complex.
This supermarket is renowned for offering a wide range of imported foods from various Asian countries. With a solid 4.0-star rating from 1,285 reviews, it’s a preferred destination for those seeking authentic Asian ingredients.
The store features diverse sections, including fresh meats, seafood, and produce. Customers appreciate the well-stocked shelves with items like Japanese snacks, Chinese sauces, and Korean spices.
Also, Hong Kong Supermarket offers in-store shopping, making it convenient for locals and visitors alike. Operating hours start at 9 AM, ensuring ample time to shop for high-quality Asian groceries.
8. C-Mart Supermarket
C-Mart Supermarket, located at 50 Herald St, Boston, MA 02118, is a popular destination for those seeking fresh Asian produce, seafood, meat, and imported foods.
With a solid 3.9-star rating from 1,021 reviews, C-Mart stands out for its extensive selection and quality. Shoppers appreciate the variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and specialty ingredients catering to diverse Asian cuisines.
The supermarket opens at 8 AM and offers a user-friendly website, cmartboston.com, for additional convenience.
C-Mart’s central location in Boston makes it easily accessible for city dwellers, and customers can call (617) 338-8811 for inquiries or assistance.
9. Ebisuya Japanese Market
Ebisuya Japanese Market, located at 65 Riverside Ave, Medford, MA 02155, is a haven for lovers of Japanese cuisine.
This market, rated 4.7 stars by 874 reviewers, offers foods imported from Japan, sushi-quality fish, and kitchenware.
Customers appreciate the store’s authenticity and wide selection of products, including fresh seafood, Japanese snacks, and specialty items like matcha and miso.
They provide convenient delivery options and operate Monday to Sunday, opening at 10 AM. Visit their website or call (781) 391-0012 for more details. Nearby public transportation and ample parking make it easily accessible for shoppers.
10. Jia Ho Supermarket
Located at 692 Washington St, Boston, Jia Ho Supermarket is a prime destination for Asian culinary ingredients.
This well-loved store boasts a solid 4.2-star rating from 870 reviews. Customers appreciate its wide selection of fresh produce, seafood, and imported goods. Jia Ho opens at 8 AM on Thursdays, making it convenient for early shoppers.
Frequent customers highlight the variety of exotic spices and hard-to-find ingredients. The supermarket also features an easy-to-navigate layout and friendly staff, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience.
For inquiries, shoppers can call (617) 338-9788. Jia Ho Supermarket’s commitment to quality makes it a favorite for Boston’s food enthusiasts.
Items You Will Find at the Asian Grocery Stores in Boston
Asian grocery stores in Boston offer an incredible variety of items that cater to the needs of diverse Asian cuisines, from Chinese and Korean to Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese.
Here’s a breakdown of the common types of items you’ll find at these stores:
Fresh Produce
Asian grocery stores stock a wide range of fresh vegetables and fruits essential for various Asian dishes.
You will find leafy greens such as bok choy, napa cabbage, and gai lan (Chinese broccoli). Root vegetables like lotus root, taro, and daikon radish are also common.
Herbs like Thai basil, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves are available for flavoring soups and curries, while exotic fruits like lychee, longan, rambutan, and durian add a unique touch to your kitchen.
Fresh Seafood and Meat
Seafood and meat sections in these stores often provide fresh or live options. Whole fish such as tilapia, snapper, and mackerel are common, along with shrimp, crab, and lobster.
Some stores have live fish tanks for customers to select their seafood directly. Specialty cuts of meat, including pork belly, chicken feet, beef shank, and various organ meats, are readily available, catering to traditional Asian cooking.
Rice, Noodles, and Grains
A wide variety of rice and noodles are staples in Asian cuisine. You will find jasmine, basmati, and glutinous (sticky) rice, along with Japanese sushi rice.
Different kinds of noodles, including rice vermicelli, udon, ramen, and soba, are available, along with glass noodles made from mung beans and egg noodles.
Sauces, Condiments, and Spices
Asian cooking relies heavily on sauces, condiments, and spices. You can find soy sauce, tamari, and ponzu in abundance, along with fish sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce.
Sesame oil and rice vinegar are essential for adding depth to dishes. Miso paste and gochujang (Korean chili paste) offer complex flavors, while curry pastes from Thailand, Malaysia, and India bring rich textures.
Spices such as Szechuan peppercorns, five-spice powder, and star anise are often used in stir-fries, soups, and braised dishes.
Frozen Foods
Asian grocery stores feature a well-stocked frozen section with many ready-to-cook items. You can find frozen dumplings filled with pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
Frozen buns, bao, and siu mai are popular for making dim sum at home. Other frozen offerings include seafood, pre-packaged meals like fried rice, and stir-fry dishes.
Snacks and Desserts
Asian snacks and desserts are an exciting part of the shopping experience. Japanese rice crackers, shrimp chips, and mochi are among the favorites.
Pocky sticks, a popular Japanese snack, come in various flavors. For a more savory experience, dried squid and seaweed snacks are widely available.
For those with a sweet tooth, you’ll find mooncakes, egg tarts, and Japanese dorayaki, a pancake filled with red bean paste.
Bubble tea kits are also commonly sold, complete with tapioca pearls and flavored powders or syrups.
Beverages
Asian grocery stores in Boston offer a wide selection of beverages. Tea lovers can explore a range of green teas, matcha, and jasmine tea.
Asian sodas, including Ramune from Japan and grass jelly drinks, are a fun choice for something refreshing.
Alcoholic beverages such as Korean soju and Japanese sake are available in many stores. Coconut water, aloe drinks, and milk tea are popular non-alcoholic options.
Canned and Preserved Goods
The canned and preserved goods sections offer a wide variety of products. Common canned items include bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and baby corn.
Pickled vegetables like kimchi (Korean fermented cabbage) and Japanese pickles provide sour and umami flavors. Fermented products, including tofu and black bean paste, add depth to soups and stews.
Tofu and Plant-Based Products
Tofu is a versatile ingredient in Asian cooking, and you will find a variety of options, including firm, soft, and silken tofu.
Tofu skin (yuba) and fermented tofu are also commonly available. For those interested in plant-based alternatives, many stores carry items like seitan and tempeh.
Baking and Cooking Essentials
For home cooks, these stores provide the essential tools and ingredients to prepare authentic dishes. You can find rice cookers, woks, and bamboo steamers.
Specialty flours, such as rice flour, tapioca flour, and mochiko (sweet rice flour), are useful for making traditional sweets and snacks. Nori seaweed sheets and bamboo rolling mats are often sold for sushi-making at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes H Mart Burlington a popular choice?
H Mart Burlington is popular for its broad selection of imported packaged foods and fresh produce, making it a go-to destination for both home cooks and food enthusiasts.
Where can I find Asian spices and specialty ingredients in Boston?
Mekong Market is renowned for its extensive variety of Asian spices and specialty ingredients, catering to diverse culinary needs.
What is special about Kam Man Foods?
Kam Man Foods is highlighted for its vast selection of authentic Asian products, making it a top choice for anyone seeking genuine Asian culinary ingredients.
How is Jia Ho Supermarket rated by customers?
Jia Ho Supermarket boasts a solid 4.2-star rating from 870 reviews, indicating its popularity and customer satisfaction.
Which store should I visit for a wide range of imported Asian foods?
Hong Kong Supermarket is renowned for its wide range of imported foods, offering customers a great selection of Asian groceries.
Where can I find a comprehensive range of Asian groceries in Boston?
Good Fortune Supermarket is recognized for its extensive selection of Asian groceries, ensuring customers have access to a wide variety of products.
Conclusion
Boston’s Asian grocery stores offer an unmatched variety of fresh produce, exotic spices, and specialty ingredients.
From H Mart’s broad selection to Kam Man Foods’ authentic products, these stores cater to diverse culinary needs.
College Convenience is perfect for late-night shoppers, while Mekong Market and C-Mart Supermarket are go-to places for hard-to-find ingredients.
Good Fortune and Hong Kong Supermarkets boast extensive selections, and Ebisuya Japanese Market is ideal for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts.
Jia Ho Supermarket, with its standout rating and wide array of products, remains a favorite among local food lovers. Explore these destinations to elevate your culinary adventures.
For those seeking specific dietary products, Reliable Market offers a range of vegan and gluten-free options.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or an adventurous foodie, these stores promise to enhance your culinary experience.
Natalie Kurtzman