BY CINDY GERLACH
For some, a visit to an international grocery store is about acquiring the proper ingredients to create authentic ethnic cuisine. Yet for others, it’s a way to feel at home.
Jenny Hwang, manager of Hana Market in West Lafayette, says shopping at Hana Market evokes fond memories, where shoppers can be surrounded by the familiar sights and smells that remind them of home.
“We try to carry lots of food for students,” she says. “They’re far away from home.”
The presence of Purdue University, and its population of international students – one of the highest for a major university in the country – means that grocery stores that cater to that population are plentiful. Yet the stores are also popular for people with an epicurean streak, as it’s possible to get the best possible ingredients for one’s culinary endeavors. The stores feature authentic items – some fresh, some frozen, some ready to eat – and right in your own backyard.
ALDI
210 SAGAMORE PARKWAY, WEST LAFAYETTE
957 SAGAMORE PARKWAY, LAFAYETTE
Maybe you don’t know that shopping at Aldi is actually a German supermarket experience. This explains why you must pay a deposit, or pfand, when you pick up your shopping cart, which is refunded upon its return. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags; Aldi does have plastic bags, but customers are charged for them – another German practice.
Aldi, a no-frills supermarket, carries standard grocery items, but many of them are European brands. Its housewares are a hit, but as regulars at Aldi know, you can’t depend on finding items from one week to the next. At Christmastime, Aldi is the best place in town to find traditional German holiday treats, such as mulled wine, or Gluhwein, and chocolate advent calendars.
ASIA MARKET
2400 YEAGER ROAD, WEST LAFAYETTE
Asia Market caters to multiple ethnic palates. Aisles are clearly labeled, noting food items from Africa, India, Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, China and Taiwan. Fresh and frozen meats, rice in bulk, and frozen items are all available, as are spices, sauces and easy-to-prepare foods. Dishes and housewares are also available.
BETTER WORLD MARKET
402 BROWN ST., WEST LAFAYETTE
Better World Market is hidden just off the West Lafayette levee, tucked in behind Tapawingo Park and Wabash Landing. A fairly large supermarket, it carries a variety of items that cater to its Asian clientele. The store carries a variety of vegetables, from lotus root to Japanese yams. Customers can find everything they need to cook their dishes, such as bulk rice, fresh meat and spices, or they can find easy-to-prepare ramen noodles and frozen items.
Some toiletries also are available, with translated labels, making it friendly for those unfamiliar with English.
The store also offers local delivery and free pick-up.
As a bonus, there is a small restaurant hidden in the back of the store, offering authentic Chinese cuisine.
HANA MARKET
3457 BETHEL DRIVE, WEST LAFAYETTE
From its inauspicious frontage in a strip mall, Hana Market appears to be tiny. But upon entering, it’s a large space, filled with rows of items that cater to its audience. The store is about 80 percent Korean items, says Hwang, with some Japanese and Chinese items.
It’s a haven for those far from home, Hwang says, a place where they can find familiar items – especially for students, who long for the comforts of home.
“It’s a hangout for them,” Hwang says.
The store offers a variety of grocery items – from staples for cooking to quick items, easy to heat up and prepare, which are popular with students. People can pick up snack items or their daily supplies, such as rice and kimchi.
The market also tries to keep up with what is trendy, Hwang says, which appeals to both students and U.S. customers, who, thanks to the Internet and social media, have often heard of particular items and are anxious to try them. Currently, very spicy items are en vogue – and Hana is sure to have them.
People often come in and ask Hwang about particular items that are trending. And she is happy to lend assistance.
“If I’m not busy and someone asks about the recipe, I can explain how to make it,” she says.
KHYBER SUPERMARKET
237 E. STATE ST., WEST LAFAYETTE
Khyber Supermarket offers a selection of Middle Eastern items. Located near the Purdue University campus, it’s convenient for students and faculty alike. Spices are readily available, as are ingredients for many beloved Middle Eastern dishes.
OASIS MEXICAN GROCERY
2338 SAGAMORE PARKWAY, WEST LAFAYETTE
This store, on the edge of West Lafayette, offers everything one needs to make authentic Mexican food. From beans and rice to pre-made tortillas, Mexican food lovers can find everything they need. Beverages and specialty sweets are favorites.
Other international groceries:
INDIAN AND INTERNATIONAL GROCERY: 1070 SAGAMORE PARKWAY WEST, WEST LAFAYETTE
JALISCO GROCERY: 3315 MCCARTY LANE, LAFAYETTE
LA CHIQUITA: 1440 SAGAMORE PARKWAY NORTH, LAFAYETTE
LA PLAZA: 2100 VETERANS MEMORIAL PARKWAY, LAFAYETTE
LA VILLAGE FOOD MART: 208 SOUTH ST., LAFAYETTE
