Jason V.
Yelp
Standing strong amidst the presence of nearby Asian grocery titans such as Fubonn and Hong Phat, Lily Market punches way about its weight class, in terms of variety, quality and price. While its slightly farther away for me than other, similar markets, I find myself gravitating more and more towards this privately-run grocer, instead of the larger chains, partially due to wanting to support local business, but also because it's just so darn cool!
Parking is a little tight, unless you use the satellite lot that precedes it on Halsey, and depending on what entrance you use, Lily Market gives the impression of being smaller than it actually is. Don't be fooled. Like the Tardis, it is bigger on the inside, I assure you. In fact, I tend to forget that every time I come here, and have been surprised each time by just how much stuff they pack into this place!
All the staples are here: instant noodles, sauces, fresh produce, chips and snacks, candies, tableware, cookery and utensils, frozen entrees, desserts, spices, even Asian DVDs...the list goes on! I would probably hit the character limit for this review if I tried to summarize all the things you'll find here, but that would be rude of me. Part of the fun is in the adventure of discovering new and interesting things around every corner!
About the only thing I can't find here is the same thing I complain about in regards to just about every Asian grocery store (except H-Mart and Uwajimaya), and that is the lack of quality cuts of beef, particularly for dishes like sukiyaki, shabu shabu and bulgogi. For some reason, unless the grocer is specifically Korean or Japanese, you're not going to find these cuts of meat, even if the store carries other items from these cultural cuisines. I mean, if you sell mochi and miso, you need to step up and cover all the bases. But I digress.
*steps off soapbox*
Anyway, the prices are comparable and competitive, and come with the good feeling that you're putting money into the hands of locals in your community (unless I am grossly mistaken) instead of a larger commercial entity. Most of the staff go about their business without getting into yours, and leave you to your own devices, unless you seek them out specifically.
Overall, I come back to Lily Market for its tremendous selection of exotic items, and reasonable prices, even if I have to find my gyuniku elsewhere. If you wish for Asian dishes, don't be silly, shop at Lily!