In the musical chairs department, Henderson Road’s Sunrise Asian Super Market closed its doors on the south side of the street, and opened its doors across the thoroughfare on the north side. It might seem like an awful lot of trouble to haul and relocate all the goods across the street, but the move puts it inside the old digs of Fresh Market; that’s a well-equipped, sweet spot for any food purveyor. And although it was heartbreaking to lose Fresh Market, Sunrise is a good replacement. In fact, its produce might be the best in town right now. Meticulously organized and abundantly stocked in pristine, spotless refrigerator cases.
The grocery is also equipped with something close to an aquarium in the back: tank upon tank of fish (plus lobsters) swimming around, minding their own business, waiting for someone to eat them.
And smack dab in the middle of the store is a spot called Noodle Station. And there, you can score fresh-made eats, including pho and a variety of quick snacks.
This is how we found the Chive Calzone. Yes, that Calzone. It’s true fusion. In this chive version, the crimped bread shell is thinner and more delicate than a traditional version. It’s still sturdy enough to hold a filling that contains more than just chives. The pocket is packed with a sea of green that also includes mini rice noodle fragments, and after a bite or two, there’s something seaweed-ish in there. It takes a moment to recognize. The treat is thoroughly engaging.
Or perhaps something less fusion-y? Steamed Roast Pork Rice Roll it is. Slim-cut shards of characteristically red-rimmed pork are rolled up inside gelatinous, steamed, rice-based tubes. It’s okay – much more fun dipped in the companion savory sauce.
Most items from the snack menu are around $5, so it’s all a low-stakes adventure. You can eat right in the store at the counter, or you can take it to-go. It’s open seven days a week inside the grocery at 1920 W. Henderson Rd.