Vegetable Bin(Song's Family Grocery & Polynesian Deli)

​If you know, you know. I’ve been coming to The Vegetable Bin (Song’s) since the late 80s and early 90s, back when it was located across the street. While the neighborhood has changed drastically around it—especially since Seattle rebuilt the shop to make way for the Light Rail—Song’s remains a cornerstone of the South End. ​The Evolution ​Long-time locals will remember when this spot was much more produce-heavy in its original location. Since the move, it has evolved into the ultimate destination for Pacific Islander staples. It’s arguably the most popular spot in the Rainier Valley for the community to grab essentials that are hard to find elsewhere. ​The Must-Haves ​Whether you’re stopping in for a quick snack or stocking up for a family feast, they have the staples dialed in: ​The Corned Beef: They carry the specific brands (like Palm) that are essential for a proper home-cooked meal. ​Musubis: Always fresh, perfectly seasoned, and the best "on-the-go" fuel in the valley. ​Taro & Roots: Still the go-to spot for quality taro and other traditional staples. ​Island Favorites: From snacks to specialty canned goods, it’s a taste of home for the Poly community. ​The Verdict ​The Vegetable Bin isn’t just a convenience store; it’s a piece of Seattle history. It survived the Light Rail expansion and came out the other side as a specialized hub that truly serves the people living here. It’s gritty, it’s authentic, and it’s been consistent for over 30 years.

Took one bite had to write a review. The prices are great and the food is even greater. Good Masubi but the turkey tail is probably the best turkey I've had ever. 7 bucks for a turkey tail and Masubi.

If you live nearby you should shop here. Cute store, I am thankful they exist. (If you could ever use help getting that graffiti off, I have a ladder and time!)

Best Samoan food always 💯 Everyone needs to come here and give them more business. Best food, Best Service, Best Products.💯 Keep all the bums away from dis place 💯 Long Live Sung 🌟 21 years coming here and I will continue to buy da place out everytimeeeeeeee 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

Used to be better. When the Samoans were cooking the Samoan foods.

This is the first time I have been there in decades. Since they moved across the street on M L King Way S. My best friend used to work there decades ago. Anyway, I was with a Samoan friend, who wanted to stop in. Back when my friend worked there, they only sold vegetables. Thus the name Vegetable Bin. Not anymore! They sell T-Shirts and other clothing items and knick knacks. They also have a deli now. My friend mentioned their Musubi sandwiches. Technically, I suppose it's not a sandwich. More like sushi, but not sliced... Spam and rice, wrapped in Nori seaweed. It was very good! I also grabbed a turkey tail. Also very good! When I was growing up, the butt cut of a chicken was my favorite part. The sweet, fatty meat of the tail, and the 2 tiny chicken oysters near the spine. Arguably the best tasting part of a chicken. Anyway, the turkey tail was delicious! Nice and fatty, and in a delicious sauce. I will have to return and check out their other deli items. Another review to come. Check them out!

This visit was random. We live further north and usually make a pit stop on our way back from the airport. In the 25+years of this establishment, I have never been disappointed with the food. The palusami made my throat itchy, more leaves than coconut and the portion wasn't as big as it used to be. The selection of food (menu) was limited, ten items and only four available? And what happened to the tall pot with the sua fa'i? I couldn't get any more than one word from the man behind the counter. He was cooking and seemed to be in a hurry. I looked around for Sung? No sign of him, so I inquired, "Where's Sung?" The cashier said, "Sung passed away six months ago." My heart ached in that moment, 'No wonder, that explains everything." We talked for a bit. The woman took me towards the restroom to look at the pictures and said, "See, Sung go Samoa!" The woman is Sung's sister in law and the man in the kitchen is Sung's younger brother, her husband. Sung lived with them for several months before his demise. This long time running Owner always had a smile - and always poked fun at my father every time we would pick up luau leaves. He tells whoever is nearby, a customer, an employee, anybody, "You see this man, him come from Samoa, no cooka palusami but make this for Hawaii, laulau c'mon you Samoa!" He was a great guy! He will be missed! Rest in peace Sung!

I feel very saddened when retailers come into the community and price gauge. $19.99 for noodles and then have nerve to look at you as if you were going to steal their high priced outdated goods. Be community based not profit based. Why charge $4.99 for a Mikes beer when you can go down the street and get it for $3.34? And they call themselves a vegetable bin store with no produce, go figure. Sad