Discover Uwajimaya Bellevue: Asian Groceries, Poke & More!
Craving the exotic flavors of the East, or perhaps just seeking the freshest seafood and unique ingredients? Uwajimaya in Bellevue, Washington, isn't just a grocery store; it's a portal to a world of culinary delights, a vibrant hub of Asian culture, and a beloved institution for both seasoned foodies and curious newcomers.
Uwajimaya's presence in Bellevue, a bustling city in the heart of Washington State, has become synonymous with quality Asian groceries, a wide array of gifts, and an unparalleled selection of fresh seafood and sake. The store, a cornerstone of the community, has evolved over the years, adapting to the changing tastes and needs of its diverse clientele. The Bellevue location, a sprawling 35,000-square-foot space, has undergone a recent renovation, resulting in a more open and inviting layout.
This transformation, completed in the summer of 2023, enhanced the shopping experience, mirroring the spaciousness and accessibility of its sister store in Seattle's Chinatown. This renovation has provided an enhanced environment for both the customer and employees. Uwajimaya, with its roots deeply planted in the Pacific Northwest, has grown from its humble beginnings in Tacoma in 1928.
The Uwajimaya story is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to preserving and sharing Asian culture. Fujimatsu Moriguchi, a native of Yawatahama, Japan, initiated the business by selling homemade fishcakes and Japanese staples from the back of his truck. His dedication laid the foundation for what would become the largest Asian grocery and gift market in the Pacific Northwest. Uwajimaya's journey mirrors the evolution of Asian communities in the region, reflecting their growing influence and contribution to the local fabric.
Today, Uwajimaya in Bellevue offers a comprehensive shopping experience. The store stocks an extraordinary assortment of Asian and American groceries, fresh produce, high-quality meat, a wide variety of seafood, and a curated selection of gifts. A comprehensive deli section, plus an outdoor seating area ensures customers a comfortable shopping experience. Its commitment to providing an authentic taste of Asian culture, sets it apart from other grocery stores.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Uwajimaya Bellevue |
| Type | Asian Grocery and Gift Market |
| Address | Bellevue, Washington (Specific address can be found online) |
| Key Offerings | Asian and American groceries, produce, meat, seafood, gifts, sake, prepared foods (including a poke bar and sashimi island), deli, and catering services. |
| Unique Features | Live seafood tanks, a wide array of traditional Asian ingredients, a bustling food court, and catering services. |
| History | Relocated to its current location in the Wilburton Hills area in March 2011. Has served the Eastside for over 40 years. |
| Size | 35,000 square feet |
| Renovations | Recently renovated, with the remodeling completed in the summer of 2023. |
| Additional Features | Gashapon machines at all locations, online ordering with pickup and delivery, and outdoor seating area. |
| Catering | Catering services are available for work events, meetings, and parties. |
| Reviews | Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor with 54 unbiased reviews and ranked #39 of 351 restaurants in Bellevue. |
| Online Presence | Uwajimaya Official Website |
The stores seafood department is a significant draw, and for good reason. Its selection includes the finest grade sashimi available, and it's one of the few fish markets in the Pacific Northwest with a live tank system. This allows customers to purchase live clams, oysters, crab, lobsters, and other delicacies, a testament to the store's commitment to offering the freshest and highest-quality seafood. From sea urchin (uni) to spot prawns, Uwajimaya strives to provide an unparalleled experience for seafood lovers.
One of the standout features of the Bellevue location is its emphasis on prepared foods. The poke bar, often cited as a customer favorite, offers a variety of fresh and flavorful poke bowls. The sashimi island, another popular destination, showcases an array of expertly prepared sushi and sashimi. Customers can also find a wide selection of hot and prepared Asian foods, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Uwajimaya doesn't just cater to the immediate shopping needs of its customers; it also supports their culinary endeavors with catering services. A large menu of catered food is available for work events, meetings, and parties, making it easy for customers to share the flavors of Asia with colleagues, friends, and family. The store's commitment to providing quality ingredients and prepared foods extends to its online platform.
Customers can order online and choose from pickup or delivery options, making it even more convenient to access their favorite products. Furthermore, the store frequently hosts special events and offers discounts, providing additional value and excitement for shoppers.
The store is also known for its diverse selection of Asian foods from Japan, China, Hawaii, the Philippines, Korea, Thailand, and other Asian countries. Whether you're seeking familiar staples or more unique, hard-to-find ingredients, Uwajimaya offers a wide array of products. For those who are passionate about Asian cuisine, Uwajimaya is a culinary playground.
The store's commitment to excellence extends to its customer service. Known for its friendly and helpful staff, Uwajimaya ensures that every shopping experience is pleasant and enjoyable. The staff is always ready to assist customers in finding ingredients, offering cooking advice, or simply sharing a cultural insight.
Over its many years, Uwajimaya has become much more than just a grocery store; it's become a cultural center. The storess commitment to sharing the love of Asian culture is evident in its diverse product offerings, the addition of gashapon machines and its celebration of traditional Asian ingredients.
In recent years, Uwajimaya has also embraced the digital world, with a well-maintained website that provides detailed information about its products, services, and special events. The stores presence on social media keeps customers informed about the latest news, construction updates, and promotions. This is another example of how Uwajimaya strives to provide excellent customer service.
The strategic location of the Bellevue store, easily accessible and centrally located near downtown, makes it a convenient destination for shoppers throughout the area. The stores commitment to the community is reflected in its active participation in local events and its ongoing support of local businesses and organizations.
Uwajimaya in Bellevue stands out as a leading example of how a business can successfully blend a commercial enterprise with a celebration of culture and community. With its expansive selection of products, its dedication to customer service, and its ongoing commitment to innovation, Uwajimaya continues to be a favorite for all the residents in Bellevue. It's a place where food lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those seeking a vibrant and exciting shopping experience can come together, discover new flavors, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Asian culture.
The stores history, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier Asian market, illustrates the power of vision, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to quality. The recent renovations and the ongoing evolution of its offerings and services ensure that Uwajimaya will continue to be a vital part of the Bellevue community for many years to come.
So, whether you are looking for the freshest seafood, exotic ingredients, a quick bite, or an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Asia, Uwajimaya in Bellevue is the place to be. It is a place where every visit is an adventure.
