Rimping Supermarket Nim City Branch — Attraction in Chiang Mai Province

Over the years I've been to a number of Rimping branches in Chiang Mai, including Promenada, Wat Ket and Maya, however this one is the best so far. I usually go to Rimping when I want some great food (it's more of a massive delicatessen store than a traditional supermarket, although you can get most mainstream supermarket items also).

Like the other ones, this branch has a great selection of products from all over the world, including many innovative new products from Thailand and lots of organic foods. Plus the usual wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables, with uncommon imported fruits also often available (today picked up some fresh snake fruit for example). Staff are always friendly and very helpful in my experience.

But here at Nim City they also have a bakery section with fresh bread, a nice selection of fresh-cut cheeses, and since recently they have this massive selection of wines (probably between 1000-2000 different ones - just guessing from looking at the area which takes up a fair bit of the supermarket) from all over the world, most of which is kept behind glass doors in climate-controlled conditions.

A great place to explore for foodies. The only problem is, before you know it, you end up with a shopping trolley full of delicious foods you never intended to buy when you got there. But then, the diet can wait till...

First time in this store. I went to get two types of bourbon and groceries. I picked up the first bottle and was immediately approached by the clerk who stated I had to pay for the bottle by 2pm because they close this section from 2-5pm.. It was 5 minutes until 2, no problem. I asked if they also had Makers Mark. She looked quickly and replied, "No," and rushed me to the front to pay for the one bottle. I continued my shopping and when I got around to the alcohol section again it was roped off and closed. I viewed the shelves, and to my surprise, there was Maker's Mark bourbon sitting right there! I don't mind that this section is closed from 2-5pm, but I gave 2 stars because the clerk didn't know (or take the time) to find the bourbon I asked for. I won't return to this store. I'm in between 2 Rimping Supermarkets and the other one is much bigger with more choices and a bigger selection. Also, the store clerks are super friendly and not trying to get you out of there so...

Rimping was a major reason why we moved to Chiang Mai. This is the best supermarket chain (they have eight shops in town) you'll find anywhere in Thailand, especially for expats. Their shelves are stocked with very good quality imports, local produce, and meats. While they might not match the same commitment to organic, this chain really strives to emulate the 'Whole Foods' shopping experience you might already be familiar with in the US or England. Shopping here won't feel like a foreign experience, but do expect to pay up to four times more than you would back home. Most things coming into the country carry an import tax...