Story by Anjali Raghavan // @anjaliraghava.n // she/her
Graphic by Karis Tsao // @_katsao_ // she/her
The Hancock Center HEB is a grocery store staple for students of the University of Texas at Austin. It’s a failsafe, tried-and-true, one-stop-shop. However, recently I have been wanting some variety. Whether that means diversifying produce picks or simply getting the opportunity to try some new snacks, the city of Austin provides an assortment of ethnic and micro-grocers for one to choose from.
Rabbit Food Grocery
Rabbit Food Grocery describes itself as your “friendly neighborhood vegan grocery store,” and it is exactly that! The vegan food options at HEB are limited to those most popular (think your Daiya cheeses of the world), but not necessarily those that are the most delicious. I have found Rabbit Food Grocery to be the only grocer near campus that stocks the brands I get excited about. My personal favorite meat and cheese substitute company, Herbivorous Butcher, is stocked here, as well as the vegan Sriracha ranch dip of my dreams, by The Honest Stand. Not only that, this store was started by two longtime vegans who are truly passionate about the meat-free lifestyle. If you haven’t checked it out already, Rabbit Food Grocery is a must-visit for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Man Pasand Supermarket
Man Pasand Supermarket holds a special place in my heart as a South-Asian woman looking for a taste of home. This Indian & Pakistani grocery store never fails when I’m in need of some desi food. Located right off of I-35, the grocer could act as an extremely cost-effective and convenient option for all UT students. Here at Man Pasand, spices are sold in bulk for far more affordable prices than the glass McCormick bottles gracing HEB. Stock up some turmeric, chili powder, or cumin powder (the list goes on and on) for a fraction of the cost. Man Pasand also showcases a huge variety of produce, freshly made yogurt, and even an assortment of Indian & Pakistani savory snacks. This supermarket provides its shoppers with an incredible experience and is definitely a spot to check out if you are looking to switch up your grocery run.
Asahi Imports
I stumbled across Asahi Imports when looking to satisfy a mochi donut craving. Asahi Imports was collaborating with a local baker that day, and I’m so glad I was able to find this local gem. Asahi Imports is Austin’s only exclusively Japanese market. Here you can find everyday Japanese food items, specialty snacks and sweets, and a huge variety of sake and Japanese beers. This grocery store succeeds in providing the Austin population with a diverse produce selection, including lotus root, fresh shishito peppers, and the largest, most glorious ginger roots I have ever seen. My personal pantry staple from Asahi is their S&B Rayu Japanese Chili Oil, which serves as the perfect condiment for any dish.
Fresh Plus
Fresh Plus Grocery has been family-owned and operated since 1927, and prides itself on providing the public with locally-sourced products. My personal favorite of their four locations is the Clarksville location. This little neighborhood spot has everything you could need, allowing you a much-needed respite from the hustle of a larger supermarket. Their produce is fresh, and their wine and craft beer selection is unparalleled. The true star of the show, however, is their deli section. An array of sandwiches, soups, smoked meats, and salads grace the aisles, making Fresh Plus the perfect destination for a quick and convenient grocery store experience. If you truly want a taste of Austin, Fresh Plus Grocery provides you with just that!
The city of Austin can provide you with endless opportunities to switch up your grocery shopping outside of your normal HEB run, but these are my personal favorites at the moment. Say goodbye to the long lines, and hello to the exciting new world of micro-grocers near you!
