More Grocery Stores That Are Also Great Restaurants

For those who appreciate gourmet fare without the fuss, grocery stores offering exceptional prepared food are a true delight. More than just a place for pantry staples, these markets can be culinary destinations in themselves. Building on previous recommendations of grocery stores boasting top-tier edibles, this guide highlights select locations perfect for grabbing a delicious meal, especially as picnic season approaches or for effortless entertaining when hosting impromptu gatherings. Discover these havens of flavorful, ready-to-eat options.

Plov Perfection

Tashkent Supermarket, a celebrated purveyor of Uzbek groceries with established locations in Brooklyn and Queens, has recently inaugurated its Manhattan outpost in Greenwich Village. While the store stocks a diverse range of produce and Eastern European goods, the primary attraction is its impressive prepared food selection. Patrons can explore extensive hot food bars, a dedicated bakery, a kebab station, and a plov counter. Standout culinary offerings include generously sized spiced beef manti, delicate kutabi – a savory Azerbaijani pancake filled with beef – and expertly seasoned potatoes and mushrooms. The highlight, however, is the exceptional plov, a traditional rice dish with succulent stewed meat, with the lamb variety being particularly noteworthy.

Navigating the Buffet

When indulging in buffet-style prepared food, strategic sampling is key. It’s advisable to survey all options before making selections to optimize your choices. Be mindful of pricing, especially when filling containers with items priced per pound, such as salads and dumplings. For the optimal experience with Tashkent Supermarket’s plov, enjoy it fresh in nearby Washington Square Park, savoring every caramelized clove from the roasted garlic. Repeat visits are highly recommended to fully appreciate the diverse offerings.

Location: 378 6th Avenue (Waverly Place)

Picture-Perfect Chirashi Bowls

An online recommendation led to the discovery of MOGMOG, a compact Japanese market situated in Long Island City. This gem is stocked with an impressive array of Japanese snacks, condiments, and noodles, warranting an extended browsing period.

Refrigerated cases reveal stunning chirashi bowls, where the artistic presentation and premium quality of the fish justify the price. Other notable finds include springy, sesame-coated dango with a rich filling and curated Japanese beers, like the distinctive Kagua saison infused with yuzu. Be aware that MOGMOG might represent a higher spend for fewer items compared to typical grocery stores, particularly when tempted by unique delicacies such as a pricey mochi-wrapped snowberry. However, such singular treats are worth considering for an exceptional experience.

Korean Market Delights

BTS Korean Market in Bed-Stuy, a hybrid space blending grocery store and florist elements, exudes an inviting ambiance. Its online presence accurately describes it as a “one-stop shop to happiness.” Must-try prepared food selections include spicy braised tofu, flavorful kimbap (available in vegetable and bulgogi variations, accompanied by miso soup), homemade kimchi, and delightful sesame mochi doughnuts.

Beyond banchan and prepared eats, the market also offers reasonably priced flowers, with a vibrant assortment of tulips currently available. This makes it a convenient stop for spontaneous gifts for birthdays, celebrations, or apologies – enhanced by the addition of Korean candies to sweeten any gesture.

Location: 512 Nostrand Avenue (Halsey Street)

Reader Inquiry

Seeking recommendations for the best kosher-style omakase (excluding shellfish, eel, octopus/squid, pork, etc.). – Bill

Response: Sushi by M consistently comes to mind as a strong recommendation. Its appeal stems from several factors: multiple locations, an accessible 12-piece omakase at an attractive price point, and ease of securing reservations, even last-minute. Its quality and kosher-style adaptability are commendable. Cheers to satisfying your sushi craving!