Japanese food is celebrated worldwide as one of the premier global cuisines. You could even consider yourself lucky to live in such a country where the food quality is held in such high regard. But for all of the many wonderful charms that make up Japanese cooking, sometimes you just hanker after something that tastes of home. Fortunately, some supermarkets cater to those of us wishing to purchase international foods, and your choices are only increasing.
While products on sale at these stores are often imported and thus come at a substantially higher cost, they are increasingly popular with locals and ex-pats alike. Of course, this list is only a sample of the many stores out there. There are many smaller shops dotted throughout the city (maybe even in your own neighborhood!) carrying various goods from countries around the world.
You probably already know this membership-only giant grocery store carrying imported and Japanese goods. They’re popular abroad and here in Japan for their low wholesale prices and bulk quantities. Ample parking is available, and the hot dogs from the food stand outside are still a steal. There are a few locations dotted around (though not in) Tokyo.
Website: https://www.costco.co.jp
Seijo Ishii can be found in many cities, often in or around central train stations, and carries products from all over the world, including French cheese, Australian wine, and American candy. They also have spices, sauces, and various ingredients for your home-cooked foreign recipes.
Website: http://www.seijoishii.co.jp/en/
Full store listings –www.seijoishii.co.jp/shop
An international supermarket that sells much, much more than coffee. There are many locations around the city as well as online shopping. They are often found in shopping malls and large shopping centers.
Website: www.kaldi.co.jp/english
There are almost 100 branches in Tokyo. Find one nearest you here.
Meidi-ya is a nationwide department store-based chain selling gourmet foods, including many international goods. There are plenty of stores around Tokyo, and the Hiroo store in Shibuya offers an English-speaking service.
Website: www.meidi-ya-store.com
National Azabu is an international supermarket in Tokyo and probably the only 1-stop shop on this list, as they carry pretty much everything. Parking available. Home delivery is available for purchases over 10,000 JPY.
Website: www.national-azabu.com
Nissen World Delicatessen is another large supermarket in Tokyo with an excellent selection of international foods, wines, and fresh meats. Parking and home delivery are available.
Website: www.nissinham.co.jp/nwd/index.html
2-34-2 Higashi Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Curlyrnd, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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