Word has arrived that the grand opening of the internationally oriented Universal Food Market will take place June 15, according to owner Philip Hong. Hong opened the store on 4330 S. Broadway in South City, citing the diversity of the neighborhood and its proximity to Interstate 55. He previously owned another international market in San Jose, California. Universal Food Market is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Universal boasts an ambitious seafood counter, which Hong says is one of the largest in the city. Seafood lovers can purchase live lobster, oysters, clams, catfish and more and have them cleaned on site. In addition, a deli counter in the store will offer made-to-order spring rolls and Vietnamese sandwiches. On its shelves, the store stocks ingredients and food from Asia, Central and South America, Eastern Europe and Africa.
This article appears in May 2014.