On my last visit to Royal India Grocery, mangos were being sold by the box – ultra ripe and for much less than the major grocery stores. It’s just one of the reasons I love to frequent small global grocers, which are primarily concentrated on the upper Main Line.
These grocers import authentic goods and sell them at reasonable prices. Go explore and you’ll find unique kinds of produce, spice mixes, sauces and chutneys galore, and even international frozen meals. Meal time just got a whole lot more interesting.
Read on for a sampling of boutique global grocers in our area. Pay one of these places a visit for some true international inspiration.
Philly Pinoy Foods
1160 East Dekalb Street, King of Prussia
Right in King of Prussia, you’ll find this store packed with ready-made Filipino dishes and groceries. The term “Pinoy” is an informal reference to Filipino people in the Philippines and around the world. Check out the website for a full menu, including favorites like Tokwa’t Lechon and Sotanghon Guisado. There’s a huge array of classic Filipino products to take home and experiment with.
Royal India Grocery
55 Lancaster Ave Malvern, PA 19355
This small Indian grocer has it all – fresh produce, loads of frozen savory and sweet Indian goods, a variety of lentils and grains, and a diverse dry goods section of spices, hot chutney and sauces to amp up your typical Indian regime. At the counter, look for homemade samosas and vegetable puffs.
Usha Food Market
Great Valley Shopping Center, 81 Lancaster Avenue, Malvern
This food market (which is practically across the street from Royal India Grocery), carries a wide range of South Asian and Indian groceries, as well as spices and fresh produce. If you’re going for produce, note that it’s only available Thursday through Sunday. Go for a variety of nuts/dried fruits; spices like jaggery, green hot chili and capsicum; unique snacks and even DVDs.
Gong’s Market
Great Valley Shopping Center, 81 Lancaster Avenue, Malvern
Gong’s is still on my list to check out – it’s a grocer known for a great selection of Asian foods and products, including vegetarian. Speaking of Asian markets, drive a little further and check-out H-Mart in Upper Darby, the Walmart of Asian goods – for the full report, check out this Dish Trip.
