How to Visit New Tokyo Food Market in Phoenix, AZ

For years, Asian food enthusiasts and members of the Japanese community in Phoenix have patronized New Tokyo Food Market, a small but well-stocked grocery and dry goods store in the northwest Valley. New Tokyo is a great place to stock up on soy sauce, chopsticks and noodles, but it’s also a good spot to purchase a unique hostess gift or even choose a video rental. Here’s how to visit New Tokyo Food Market in Phoenix.

Instructions

1. Plan to fill your cupboards for a reasonable price with Japanese staples such as soy and hoisin sauce, rice vinegar and sesame oil along with a wide array of noodles, soups, stocks and seasonings. A separate refrigerated section along one wall carries frozen seafood, meats and already-prepared Japanese meals to go. A small but carefully chosen produce section features fruits and vegetables commonly used in Japanese cooking.

2. Read through the community bulletin board in the back of the market if you’re interested in learning Japanese calligraphy or studying the language. You’ll find a teacher or a class to suit. The store also stocks a small selection of Japanese art supplies such as brushes and paper.

3. View a Japanese or Korean movie video ($2 for 2 days) with one of the rental DVDs in the back of the store. Brush up on your Asian cooking skills with one of New Tokyo’s cookbooks. The selection isn’t large--half a dozen or so--but the books are chosen to appeal to beginners as well as more advanced chefs.

4. Browse through New Tokyo’s array of housewares, including teapots, giftware, and knickknacks, next time you’re in the market for an unusual hostess gift. While you're there, pick up a different kind of six pack for your next party. New Tokyo stocks favorite Japanese beers such as the potent Asahi Dark.

5. New Tokyo Food Market is located at 3435 W Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85051, about a 20 minute drive from downtown Phoenix and Sky Harbor airport. The market is open daily except Wednesdays. For directions, hours and more information, call 602-841-0255.