Saturday, February 28, 2009

Oriental Market

Oriental Market's only drawback is the location. Hidden in an industrial neighborhood in Spokane, surrounded by XXX video stores and small factories and repair shops. Don't let the name fool you though. While there is definitely an Oriental emphasis, this little market is a treasure trove of culinary specialty items, and the poor location is justified by the low prices.

You will find a section here for Indian and Arab foods and spices, including an amazing deal on bulk spice jars such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. There are curries and chickpeas and pickles you will never find in a regular grocery. there is also a selection of frozen meats, including halal meat for Muslims, one of only two places in Spokane to buy it, and hard to find meat like duck or goat.

There is a miscellaneous shelf which holds Italian, South American, and other condiments. my favorites are a great price on capers, and a hard to find Achiote paste, a south american condiment used to make chicken and other dishes.

And of course, there is a plethora of foods and teas from China, Japan, Vietnam, Korea, and more. there are all kinds on non perishables as well as fish, fresh produce, and fresh noodles. a real treat is the chinese long beans, lemongrass, and a variety of rare vegetables. They also get a shipment of fresh chow funn(wide rice noodles) every wednesday, but if you want them, you had better hurry, they sell out almost immediately.

The service is great as well, the people are friendly and helpful, and will always offer up advice when you are trying something new.

I give this store five stars.

Oriental Market is located at 3919 E Trent Ave in Spokane, WA. phone is (509) 535-3936

Welcome

Welcome to my new Blog. i hope people can find useful information on this site. Keep checking for reviews on new and old and hidden businesses and events in Spokane. Also, feel free to post your own comments with ideas for a review, or make your own and I will approve it. Please do not use inappropriate language, or cruel language. there is a difference between opinion and slander. Thank you for reading.

Chadya