Get ready to find your new favorite grocery store. The Asian Supermarket has it all
Most people are creatures of habit when it comes to their grocery store and can be sticklers about trying something new. However, Columbus is lucky enough to have a variety of markets that can satisfy all sorts of needs - both basic and elaborate.
The Asian SuperMarket on Milgen Road is just one option market-goers have to expand their choices. As one of two locations, it offers over 25,000 items, including live seafood, hard-to-get fruits and vegetables, and eclectic spices from all over the world.
Cherry Zou, founder and owner, agreed to show the Ledger-Enquirer around, since the store is so expansive. It even has housewares and alcohol.
It covers the diverse Asian diaspora.
While there are American products readily available, Zou wanted to make sure that she offered a wide representation of Asian cuisine. On any given aisle you may find products from:
- China
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
- Philippines
- Korea
- India
- And more
The produce section has a lot of unexpected finds.
The Asian Supermarket carries a lot of food that no one else has, according to Zou. One customer was thrilled to see fresh Lychee fruit available and was quick to mention other items they have that are really hard to come by.
While we were there, several customers lingered over the green papaya, chrysanthemums, Thai bananas and yam leaves, pleased to be able to find them available. There is an entire wall devoted to herbs, which you can also buy in bulk if you like.
There’s lots more meat choices than a typical store.
In an attempt to cater to such a wide range of customers, the Asian Supermarket has a lot of meat products you can’t get anywhere else. While there is live catfish, lobster and crab, there is also an assortment of offerings for all sorts of cravings:
Tendon
Stomach
Chicken feet
Beef backbone
Whole pork heads
Zou joked about keeping the pork head put away after an unfortunate child happened upon one and was a tad startled.
You can also dine in, if you like.
While the Asian Supermarket is still growing and expanding, there were restaurants with sit-down tables inside the store. The day we were there, the proprietors let us snap a few pictures of some of the yummy food hanging in the front.
If you don’t want to shop on an empty stomach, come a little early to enjoy a quick bite at Xin Kee BBQ or Bella’s Catering.
You can watch demos and tastings.
One of the ways the Asian Supermarket connects with its community is to offer cooking demonstrations and then taste what is made.
The latest demo and tasting was in early June and featured fish cakes and Korean seaweed snacks. One of the more popular tastings was in May and featured Korean Topokki and Kimbap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where are they located?
A: 5750 Milgen Road in Columbus and 3750 Pepperell Parkway in Opelika
Q: Do they have a website?
A: Yes. www.asiansupermarket.com
Q: Do they offer weekly sales or specials?
A. Yes. They have a weekly circular, like many other grocery stores, and you can find it by going to their website and clicking on “Sales Flyer.”
Q: What are the hours?
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Monday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Tuesday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Wednesday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
These hours apply to all major holidays, including Christmas and Thanksgiving.
Q: Do they accept EBT?
A: Yes, and all forms of conventional payment
What is your favorite item from the Asian Supermarket (or any other store)? Sound off in the comments, or you can email me and find me on Instagram.
