I remember this as the old “Freight Merchants”and before that, “GEM”store, lol..people should appreciate the fact that this ISNT CHINATOWN, therefore, mainly Filipino vendors (not all ) are to be expected !! A lot of Kalihi area has large Filipino ❤️ population so why does it seem some people are so surprised..🤷🏻‍♀️ Try instead to appreciate some of the beautiful things about the culture -try to think outside of the Box ..)

learn how to make Pinakbet… okra, skinny eggplant, kabocha pumpkin, bitter melon, long beans.. . or, learn how to cook one Long Squash for soup or stir fry..? I’m not Filipino but was raised plantation.. have learned to cook some dishes (Thai and Vietnamese too🎋 ) that I love and also try to make interesting and yummy dishes to add some Spice to our family mealtimes..💃🏻 The Patis and black beans, Vinegars, shoyus, candied brown sugar, etc, are all very reasonable and I use it all in my local dishes !! also, it helps to be nice and friendly and ask questions about some of the off- brands..

(they will tell you the truth, if they know YOU -appreciate and respect their culture as well !!) There are countless-common vegetables and fruit available ( banana- papaya- 🥭 mango ( not hadens’ though.. ) potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, cabbage, watercress, celery, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, I always find something I need for my refrigerator go- to items 👍🏽…

the meat, not so fresh, sometimes 🥀 Dry shrimp (Opae ) 🦐🦐too expensive!! although if you do go to get pork or beef, go “Seven Sisters” the meat market on the right side.. they remember you and are friendlier ❤️ then the meat market on the left side.. ( owner is a Grouch 😤)

Iam thankful to have a open market close to my house that is open 7 days and all- day— Before time, I would catch bus 🚎to go to Chinatown… then gotta carry my heavy- load 🤯and ride bus back home :(

Mahalo Chinatown- Dillingham Market!! I really appreciate you being open for everyone!!!!

God bless

💫🌷🕊💚