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Writer's pictureMichaela H

Shopping for Asian Groceries in Jacksonville -Part 1

Updated: Oct 14, 2021

Southside, San Jose & Mandarin Asian Markets


I live in the Mandarin area of Jacksonville and therefore I usually hop on the San Jose Blvd. going north with plenty of ethnic stores around. Whenever I need authentic imported Asian produce or fresh exotic fruits, I normally visit small Asian markets. Their prices are usually way lower than at Publix or at Walmart. And at the same time, I love that I can support small businesses, as they are generally owned by local ex-pat families. I know that my $100 spent on a shopping trip will make a bigger difference at a family business than at the large grocery chain. I can choose from more than 10 different Asian markets located between South Riverside and San Marcos. My favorite spot is the area around Emerson St. & University Blvd. I even think that with Jacksonville's growth of population this area could probably become "The Chinatown of First Coast."

 

Conveniently located on University Center South. in a larger plaza where you can find 2 other Asian restaurants and a European supermarket. This Burmese specialty food market has a wide selection of dry, frozen, fresh food, fruit vegetable, snacks, drinks, candies, noodles, even some baked goods. I first heard about the store when I read the article about the owner online. As a "Jaxpat" originally from Myanmar (Burma), he had a dream of having his own business once. I am not surprised that with his very very kind and helpful attitude, this clean and well-managed store. The customer service is exceptional, I spoke with the owner's nephew and he showed me around the store, their top sellers and mentioned they take special orders too.


Across from Taungzalat Asian Market, you can visit Vakok Asian Grocery, a small store with a Burmese restaurant. People seem to love, especially the Burmese breakfast salad noodle dish "Nan Gyi Thoke " and assorted fritters called"palata."


although tiny, this market with specialty Asian-Cambodian ingredients benefits from a very good location in Santa Monica center. as it is in the same plaza as Harvey supermarket. Prices are reasonable but according to reviews not the best in town.


Just moved to a bigger store and better location in Dupont shopping plaza at 6271 St Augustine Rd Unit 25, Jacksonville, FL 32217.

This South-Asian grocery store is loved by its loyal customers. They love prices and friendly customer service. Do you need quail eggs and duck eggs for an excellent price!? That’s your store! You will love the variety of fresh vegetables, exotic fruits, seafood, and many shelves filled with imported exotic Asian snacks, seasonings, and noodles for great prices. You can see the pride in ownership when you walk to Tha Mao Oriental Market or check their Instagram.


Dae-Ho Oriental Food Store

on Emerson Street is suited for ex-pats looking for lower prices. This store specializes in Korean food. Although the store has no FB page or even website you can check-out the store via 3D picture here. They also have a restaurant inside the store. You can buy also homemade items and baked goodies that are delicious


sits right next to Dae-Ho food store. This store is well known for prices that are cheaper than other Asian markets. They sell lots of fresh vegetables, exotic fruit seafood, and meat. The owners update their Facebook page with new produce usually daily, don't forget to like their page, great source for your cooking when you don't know what to cook for dinner!


is located in Shoppes of Baymeadows on Old Kings Road South. It is one of the most organized, cleanest, and one of the nicest stores I have visited. See below how well-stocked the store is. You won't be disappointed with prices or selection. Kong is indeed the “king of all the Asian stores in Jax“

New World Market

Feels and looks like an actual mini supermarket also not far from Emerson Street. This market has a small restaurant serving home-made fresh Korean food such as beef bulgogi and bim bam bop. People say prices can be a bit higher than others close by Asian stores of JAX but the selection is huge! And you can eat on-site and even shop for cosmetics, clothes, shoes, dishware, and unique gifts.


is another little Asian store on Emerson Street owned by another friendly hardworking "Jaxpat." You will find here a great selection of ramen, numerous snacks, and even home-cooked Burmese foods (so check out the fridge)! Customers come here for tasty samosas and egg rolls available every Saturday and Sunday.


their Produce is always fresh, in this "Mandarin only Asian larger sized store". Salespeople are always friendly and look for the way to provide the best service. They have a large selection of frozen and fresh vegetables, mushrooms, and even fresh bakery goods. in Jacksonville. They serve authentic boba tea inside that is delicious. The owners decided to start even selling online delivery or pick up via a new online store https://shelftocurb.com. This is really a step-up game on Jacksonville Asian Grocery market!

Have you ever shopped in any of these Asian Markets, am I missing any?

Which one is your favorite?

What is your most favorite Asian produce you always buy? Is there any food that you wish they carry in their store regularly?


Thank you for reading and drop a comment below with an idea or feedback!

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