When I heard rumors of an imported food market that sold cheese in bulk, I knew I had to check it out. Thankfully, my husband was happy to ride along to make sure this directionally challenged girl didn't get lost.
We arrived at the market and were immediately greeted by carts whirling past us at terrifying speed. As this is a wholesale market, goods are constantly being sent off to restaurants and other suppliers throughout the city (I hear this is even where the Avocado Lady sources some of her wares). While stores were happy to sell to us, the majority of people here are not buying for personal use and many of the stalls will only sell items to you in large quantities.
We make our way through the market, passing massive sacks of Sichuan peppercorns that could be smelled from a few feet away. Stall after stall featured dairy products, baking ingredients, nuts, spices, condiments, canned goods, and sacks of flour.
After checking out a few stalls, we purchased a bag of shredded mozzarella from Topwin Foods (stall 18-19). Our 3 kg bag cost only 140 rmb or roughly $23. The same amount of cheese would have cost nearly $70 USD at City Shop! They also boasted whole wheels of gouda for 240 rmb and blocks of cheddar for 280.
From a few other stores, we grabbed a chunk of parmesan reggiano for 32 rmb (usually 90 at City Shop) and some Philadelphia cream cheese for 25. With our bags full of cheese and our cholesterol levels in jeopardy, we pedaled away, vowing to return soon. Only next time I might need a minivan to bring home my spoils.
Imported Wholesale Foods Market
1255 Lianhua Rd, Minhang District
闵行区莲花路1255号
