It’s great to see new Asian markets popping up around Spokane, but one of our favorites for authentic and inexpensive gluten-free Asian ingredients is the “Best Asian Market” (formerly known as the Bay Market). It’s a short drive or bike ride from downtown Spokane at 2020 E Sprague Ave, and the shelves are stocked with staples from around the Far East. Few items are labeled “gluten free,” although most products have relatively simple lists of ingredients without questionable fillers and mystery substances. Some products list allergy information, and then of course there is an entire produce and cooler section with amazing and exotic greens and other vegetables, tropical fruit and fruit drinks, eggs and meats, and herbs and spices that are, of course, all naturally gluten free.

Varieties of Rice Noodles

One of the best things about the Best Asian Market is the shopping experience itself, including the friendly staff and customers. On a recent trip with a gluten-free friend of mine, we stalked the isles slowly, enjoying the foreign colors, shapes, smells, and labels of products and foods from around Asia that you just won’t find at a conventional American grocery store. Of course we were also on the lookout for any previously undiscovered gluten-free items hiding on the crowded shelves. Some gluten free favorites we recommend picking up on your next trip to the Best Asian Market: sushi rice and jasmine rice, amazing Thai curry pastes, great deals on quality canned coconut milk, gluten free soy and fish sauces, tapioca and rice wraps, rice and other gf noodles, millet and other gf grains, chili sauces and vinegars, eggplant and Asian greens, and good firm tofu.

Mmmmmm, mochi.

Rice Paper Wraps

Check out their web site for a look at some of their products—they even have a picture of a bottle of gluten-free soy sauce!  Or give them a call at 509-534-9300.

gf grains + antioxidants in one cup