Nantes shopping: Asian grocery stores to know
Living in Nantes also means having access to incredible culinary diversity. Whether you're looking for specific ingredients for homemade pho or simply want to discover new products, there are plenty of specialty grocery stores. Here is my practical selection, based on quality, accessibility, and authenticity, so you don't waste time in the aisles.
Mon Panier d'Asie
Mon Panier d'Asie Address: 2 Rue de l'Échelle, 44000 Nantes Google rating: 4.6/5 (201 reviews) Website: http://www.monpanierdasie.com/ View on Maps
Located right in the heart of the historic center, this small shop is an institution for many locals. The atmosphere is welcoming, and while the selection is limited by the space, it is very well chosen for everyday staples like soy sauces, noodles, and preserved vegetables. It's the ideal place for a quick stop after work, as they stay open until 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Asian et Caraïbes
Asian et Caraïbes Address: 58 Rte de Vannes, 44100 Nantes Google rating: 4.4/5 (1493 reviews) Category: Supermarket Website: http://www.asianetcaraibes.fr/ View on Maps
If you need to stock up, this is the place to go. This supermarket combines very well-stocked Asian aisles with an interesting Caribbean section. You can find everything here, from fresh fruit to drinks and bulk spices. Keep an eye on the hours, though: the store is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit between Tuesday and Saturday, with a lunch break from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Marché 212 - Bep chi em
Marché 212 - Bep chi em Address: 17 All. Commandant Charcot, 44000 Nantes Google rating: 4.9/5 (110 reviews) Category: Asian grocery store Website: https://marche212.com/ View on Maps
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating, this grocery store does not disappoint. It stands out for the freshness of its products and its friendly welcome. It's a more intimate place where you can find higher-quality ingredients, perfect for cooking authentic Vietnamese dishes. On Wednesdays, it closes at 3:00 p.m., so choose another day if you want to stop by in the evening.
Chateau Express
Chateau Express Address: 10 All. du Port Maillard, 44000 Nantes Google rating: 4.4/5 (365 reviews) Category: Asian grocery store View on Maps
Set near the port, Chateau Express offers a good balance between variety and accessibility. The location is convenient if you're wandering around the area. The shop carries a classic range of Asian grocery items, including dry goods, canned products, and a few fresh items. Note that it is closed on Mondays, but open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, leaving a wide window for your shopping.
Indochine
Indochine Address: 2 Rue du Bouffay, 44000 Nantes Google rating: 4.4/5 (491 reviews) Category: Asian grocery store View on Maps
In the heart of the Bouffay district, Indochine is a go-to spot for fans of Thai and Vietnamese cooking. The smell of fresh herbs and spices greets you as soon as you walk in. It's the perfect place to track down ingredients you won't find elsewhere, such as certain kaffir lime leaves or specific curry pastes. Closed on Mondays, it opens in the afternoon on Tuesdays and all day from Wednesday to Saturday.
Globbe Market
Globbe Market Address: 34 Rte de Carquefou, 44300 Nantes Google rating: 4.5/5 (25 reviews) Category: Grocery store Website: https://globbe-market.eatbu.com/?lang=fr View on Maps
A newer name on the Nantes scene, Globbe Market stands out with its modern concept and carefully curated selection. Located on the route de Carquefou, it attracts shoppers looking for quality international products, not only Asian ones. The shopping experience is smooth and the layout is clear. Open every day except Sunday, from 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., it's a reliable option for your weekly groceries.
Epicerie du monde
Epicerie du monde Address: 106 Bd Robert Schuman, 44300 Nantes Google rating: 4.1/5 (89 reviews) Category: Grocery store Website: https://epicerie-du-monde-nantes.eatbu.com/ View on Maps
As its name suggests, this grocery store offers international variety, with a strong Asian component. Located on boulevard Robert Schuman, it is easy to access. Customers appreciate the owners' availability and the chance to find products from different backgrounds under one roof. Open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, it's a useful neighborhood shop.
Vietnems - Épicerie et traiteur asiatique
Vietnems - Épicerie et traiteur asiatique Address: 41 Chau. de la Madeleine, 44000 Nantes Google rating: 3.6/5 (39 reviews) Category: Grocery store View on Maps
This spot combines a grocery store with catering service, which is convenient if you want to buy prepared dishes in addition to raw ingredients. Located on cours de la Madeleine, it is well placed for residents of northern Nantes. Although its rating is slightly lower than the others, the takeaway food offering is still appreciated for busy evenings. Open every day from 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Practical tips
To visit these places, use public transportation or a bike for the city center locations (Mon Panier d'Asie, Indochine), which are well served by Tramway Lines 1, 2 and 3. For Asian et Caraïbes or Globbe Market, located farther out, a car is often more practical, especially if you're buying in large quantities.
Local tip: avoid peak hours (6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.) in small grocery stores like Mon Panier d'Asie or Indochine, where the aisles are narrow. If you're looking for low prices, Asian et Caraïbes remains hard to beat for bulk items and large quantities. Always remember to check specific opening hours before heading out, especially for Chateau Express and Indochine, which are closed on Mondays.