We shop our favorite grocery stores weekly, if not more often, and the better ones stand out for many reasons. Freshness, quality, and lower prices are the three most prevalent answers when asking shoppers what they like to find. They're the same for an Asian market, and it's why some are perennial favorites and the ones people shop most often. Product assortments set specialty grocers apart and keep their shoppers satisfied. Better markets have buyers who do more than write up orders. They taste and compare products to hone the selection to the best ones. Shoppers appreciate the editing.

It's also crucial for grocers to address special dietary needs and offer products that meet them. Gluten-free items are among the fastest-growing categories in this area, along with natural and organic products. They complement the existing selection of lower sodium and sugar-free items already offered. Selling excellent alternate products such as tofu (plant-based protein) in place of some dairy products helps people with lactose intolerance enjoy more foods. Good grocery buyers keep all of these in mind and stock products to address each need. People like the stores that make it easy to find needed items.

Authentic flavor ingredients like sauces, marinades, spice blends, and the flavor pastes common to Korea and Thailand are easy to find at Asian supermarkets. They provide the basis for recipes with unique tastes and satisfying aromas. You won't find them at warehouse clubs or traditional grocers, and they mean everything when you're cooking Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, or Vietnamese foods. It's fun to browse aisles of web pages with choices in every category and new items for you to discover. You'll be improving everything you cook and enjoying yourself in the process. Your family will love it.

East Asian teas and the best ramen noodles belong in your pantry, and Asia markets have them well stocked. Sometimes the more minor things add to enjoyment and quality of life, and having them in your pantry makes so much sense. If you enjoy spicy foods, you can't beat some Korean-flavored noodle dishes. They spice up ramen and make it one-of-a-kind. The same goes for teas from the Yunnan Mountain region of China. They provide flavor and variety different from those grown elsewhere. People enjoy them at any time of the day, and you can drink them hot or iced.