🛒Explore the best local markets, international stores, and unique food finds in the city of roses.

One of the many perks of living in Pasadena, CA—aside from the charming homes, mountain views, and thriving cultural scene—is the incredible variety of Specialty Grocery Shopping in Pasadena. Whether you’re looking for organic produce, imported European cheeses, fresh Middle Eastern spices, or hard-to-find vegan snacks, Pasadena grocery shopping is anything but ordinary.

Here’s a guide to some of the best specialty grocery shopping in Pasadena, perfect for curious cooks, discerning diners, and everyday food lovers.

🥑 Erewhon Market – High-End Health & Wellness

Location: 475 S Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA

Erewhon is the holy grail for health-conscious shoppers. This upscale market offers a curated selection of organic produce, gluten-free baked goods, superfood smoothies, and supplements. It’s perfect for anyone into wellness trends or searching for premium, hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, their café makes a mean turmeric latte.

🥖 Roma Market – An Italian Classic

Location: 918 N Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA

A true Pasadena institution, Roma Market has been serving up authentic Italian groceries for decades. Known for its legendary prosciutto sandwiches, imported olive oils, and shelves full of Italian pastas and sauces, this family-owned gem is the go-to spot for anyone preparing a pasta night at home.

🥬 Pasadena Farmers’ Market – Local & Seasonal

Locations:

Victory Park (Saturdays)
Villa Parke Center (Tuesdays)

Run by the Pasadena Certified Farmers’ Market, these events are perfect for picking up local fruits and vegetables, handmade goods, and organic meats. It’s also a great way to meet local growers and artisans while supporting sustainable agriculture.

🌶️ Super King Markets – Global Goods at Great Prices

Location: 2260 Lincoln Ave, Altadena (just outside Pasadena)

Though technically in Altadena, Super King is a must-visit for Pasadena locals. This massive market is beloved for its unbeatable selection of Middle Eastern, Armenian, Mexican, and Asian foods—not to mention super-affordable prices on produce and spices. The olive bar alone is worth the trip.

🍜 Mitsuwa Marketplace – Japanese Specialties

Location: 376 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA

Tucked into a compact plaza in central Pasadena, Mitsuwa Marketplace is a haven for lovers of Japanese cuisine. You’ll find sushi-grade fish, matcha everything, ramen kits, and a beautiful selection of Japanese candies, drinks, and gifts. Don’t skip the in-store food stalls!

🧀 Bristol Farms – Gourmet Made Easy

Location: 606 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena

This upscale grocery store offers a refined shopping experience with a focus on gourmet and artisanal items. From handcrafted cheeses to organic wines and decadent desserts, Bristol Farms brings high-end grocery shopping to a convenient local setting. It’s also a great stop for prepared meals and weekend entertaining.

🥥 Howie’s Market – Local Charm Meets Quality

Location: 6580 N San Gabriel Blvd, San Gabriel (near Pasadena)

A lesser-known gem, Howie’s Market has a loyal following thanks to its old-school service and premium meat department. It blends traditional grocery shopping with high-end offerings and an incredible wine and spirits selection.

🌍 Specialty Markets by Cuisine:

Indian: India Sweets & Spices (940 E Washington Blvd)
Mexican: El Super (4211 Eagle Rock Blvd, nearby)
Korean: H Mart (Yorba Linda or Arcadia – worth the drive)
Middle Eastern: Jordan Market (537 E Villa St)

🛒 Final Thoughts: A Food Lover’s Dream

Specialty grocery shopping in Pasadena reflects the city’s rich cultural diversity, strong sense of community, and love of quality. Whether you’re hunting for organic miso paste, locally made jam, or the perfect cheese for your charcuterie board, Pasadena’s markets are stocked with flavor, personality, and surprises.

Looking to move to Pasadena and explore all it has to offer—from food to real estate? Our team at Berkshire Hathaway’s Home Services of America, is here to help you find a home near your favorite grocery haunts. Contact Paul Kaplan, local expert and long-time Pasadena resident, to begin your journey. Check out www.PasaCondos.com to start your condo search today.