Judging by the sheer queues that have formed at Don Don Donki and Daiso’s store openings, It’s no understatement to say that Singaporeans adore Japanese supermarkets and their mind boggling selection of snacks. Now, they’ve got Meidi-ya to go ga-ga over. The premium Japanese grocery store chain, which already has presence at the revamped Great World City, recently unveiled its largest store in the Lion City—a massive, two-storey flagship at Millenia Walk.
With its grand opening set for November 28, visitors can look forward to gifts with purchase, including a limited-edition thermal shopping bag and a tote bag, alongside free parking at the mall for the weekend.
Walking through the 24,000 square-feet space, which includes a bakery and food hall on level one and a Japanese-style supermarket on level two, certainly brought back fond memories of Meidi-Ya’s Liang Court Court outlet, which closed early this year after 17 years of operation.
Here’s a quick guide to shopping at the new store:
Food Hall
Start by diving straight into the food hall on level one, which is replete with fresh Japanese fruits, vegetables, and meat that’s air flown directly from Japan thrice a week and shipped by sea once a week. Looking to serve your guests premium sashimi? Make a beeline for the fresh fish section, which is supplied by Nakajima Suisan fish supplier—the largest in Japan. For quick takeaways and a fuss-free meal, there’s also a wide selection of delicatessen and Japanese curry. Meanwhile, sake lovers can shop for brands like Dassai at the wine and liquor store on level 1.
Japanese Concept Café and Bar
For a pick-me-up or a break from jostling with the crowds, head to the café and bar that’s adjacent to the food hall. There’s coffee made with organic and fair-trade coffee beans at the Café Terrace, as well as ice-cold beers at the outdoor Beer Garden.
Gokoku Japanese Bakery
Also on level one is Gokoku Japanese Bakery, which was founded in 1961. The first Gokoku outlet in the city-state to feature a dine-in café experience, the Kobe bakery bakes its creations fresh daily using Japanese flour and traditional ingredients such as brown rice and sakadane (fermented dough). Best-sellers include Malt Kurumi Pan (rye bun) and the pillowy-soft Mochi Mochi Cheese.
Hokkaido Dosanko Plaza
Don’t leave level one without checking out the Hokkaido Dosanko Plaza, a haven for Hokkaido’s best snacks and treats. They’ve also been given exclusive rights from the Hokkaido government to use the term “Dosanko”, which refers to authentic products from the region. Savouries include Hokkaido crab lunch boxes, while sweets run the gamut from the famous Shiroi Koibito (white chocolate langue de chat) to giant Pocky sticks in seasonal flavours. Mark your calendar for an upcoming Winter Hokkaido food fair, which will run from November 28 to December 13.
International Supermarket
If you have the stamina to head up level two, be sure to check out the international supermarket, which purveys both Japanese products and merchandises from international brands. Those with a sweet tooth can shop for confectionary items directly imported from Europe and America.
More information here.
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