Transitioning to a new country is a big adjustment, and sometimes we just crave the flavors and comfort from home. But it is not always that simple. When new to Canada, immigrant families or individuals sometimes have troubles with language barriers, finding, and accessing these specialty markets. Keep reading to learn more about the various international stores that we have located and listed that include Asian, Latin, South Asian, and African products.
T&T Supermarket is a top choice for anyone looking to explore Asian cuisine or shopping, as it stands as the largest Asian grocery store chain in Canada. Known for its vast selection of fresh produce, vegetables, seafood, and specialty ingredients, T&T is a one-stop destination for everything from everyday staples to hard-to-find Asian delicacies. The store also boasts an impressive range of baked goods, frozen food, ready-to-eat meals, and a variety of prepared hot dishes, making it easy for customers to enjoy authentic Asian flavors on the go. T&T Supermarket also features dedicated sections for beauty products, skincare, and health items, offering an extensive selection of popular Asian beauty brands. There is also a wide range of kitchen tools, cookware, and specialty gadgets for diverse culinary traditions, from sushi making kits to woks to hot pots. T&T Supermarkets are conveniently located in four different neighborhoods across Calgary, making it accessible for shoppers from various parts of the city.
They also have a very accessible website that provides potential customers with an online catalogue of products, and items available for delivery or pick up.
Chalo FreshCo and Sanjha Punjab
Chalo FreshCo is a South Asian grocery store located in the North East by the airport, open 8 am to 10 pm daily. They have everyday deals, which can be found online or in their printed flyers, and are known for having affordable items at the lowest price, this location even features an onsite pharmacy. Another recommended East Asian store would be Sanjha Punjab. Sanjha Punjab carries fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, kitchen utensils, and much more. They have five locations in Calgary, some characterized as Mega stores which offer more products and stock to choose from.
Latino Food Market, located in the North East area of Calgary, features affordable Latin American items that range from authentic Hispanic ingredients to cleaning products. They even sell fresh, authentic Colombian meals in store! The market offers services and descriptions in Spanish, and is right across the street from a transit stop making it incredibly accessible. Hours vary day to day for the market and the restaurant, so we highly recommend checking out their website for more information as well as a product catalogue and full menu.
With three convenient locations across Calgary, African Choice Markets have earned a stellar reputation as the city’s go-to destination for African hair products, food, and other specialty items. They offer over 500 products sourced from 15 different African countries, giving customers access to authentic and high-quality goods. The store’s products range from popular African food staples like jollof rice, plantains, and fufu flour, to a wide variety of hair care products, such as oils, shampoos, and treatments designed for textured hair. In addition to their retail services, African Choice Markets provide wholesale options for customers looking to buy in bulk. Whether you are a business owner, or large family, you can take advantage of their competitive bulk pricing. However, it’s important to note that some specialty or imported items may be priced higher due to the cost of sourcing them directly from African markets. Despite this, the store is known for a good balance of quality and affordability, making it a favorite among the local community.
Calgary’s international markets can provide a welcoming solution for anyone new to Canada, looking for familiar food and cultural products. But these markets are not just for immigrants — anyone in Calgary can benefit from exploring these diverse grocery stores and the exciting world of international cuisines. Shopping at places like T&T Supermarket, Chalo FreshCo, Sanjha Punjab, Latino Food Market, or African Choice Markets opens the door to new flavors and ingredients that can inspire culinary creativity, broaden your palate, and support local business. Sow whether you’re an immigrant looking to reconnect with home or your roots, or simply just wanting to try something new, these international markets are an exciting way to explore the world without leaving Calgary.
