Pocky, squid, and 50 pound bags of rice
There were a respectable number of non-Asians at 99 Ranch today (I actually call it “Ranch 99”). This west coast supermarket chain carries Asian foodstuffs of all sorts. The SF Chronicle’s Rob Morse goes there to marvel at its vast variety, calling it “the supermarket of the new California millennium.” I don’t go there very often because they bag their produce into family-sized (or perhaps vegetarian sized) portions, but I visit to stock up on Asian pantry staples like soy sauce and rice. The atmosphere can be overwhelming and the Asian culture’s tinier personal space comfort zone is apparent as you battle your way through busy areas. But I can see the attraction for non-Asians to come experience 99 Ranch, not just for the availability of interesting ingredients. It’s a fascinating place with live fish, exotic fruits and greens, strange snack foods, and foreign smells. It’s Chinatown without the touristy facade. Anyone want to split a bag of gai lan?