Love exploring local markets and trying new food?
Then you will want to check out one of Brisbane’s best-kept secrets – Alchester Asia Mart in Sunnybank.
It is a favourite among the local Chinese community and a top spot to find authentic Asian ingredients, snacks, and fresh produce that you won’t usually see in places like Coles or Woolies.
What is Alchester Asia Mart?
Alchester Asia Mart is one of Brisbane’s top Asian supermarkets, right in the heart of Sunnybank – often called Brisbane’s unofficial Chinatown.
It is packed with ingredients from all across Asia, especially Chinese products, making it the perfect stop if you want to try something different in the kitchen or just love discovering new flavours.
It’s also a great way to support local businesses and try something you won’t find in your everyday shops.
Must-Try Ingredients and Snacks
Here are some of the unique and tasty things you’ll find at the market:
1. Osmanthus Flower
Used in traditional Chinese tea, osmanthus flower adds a light, sweet, floral flavour.
It is a great way to fancy up your regular cuppa with something a bit different.
2. Sweet Rice Crackers
These crunchy rice crackers with sweet icing are the perfect mix of salty and sweet.
3. Hi-Chew & White Rabbit Candy
Got a sweet tooth?
Hi-Chew is fruity and chewy, while White Rabbit candy is creamy and nostalgic – a classic treat in Chinese culture.
4. Cucumber-Flavoured Chips
Sounds strange?
Maybe – but they’re a fun snack to try.
Some love them, some don’t, but they’re definitely a talking point!
5. Sichuan Peppercorn
Want to make your own Kung Pao Chicken at home?
You will need these.
Sichuan peppercorns give a unique tingly, numbing spice that’s unlike anything else.
6. Exotic Fruits and Veggies
The fresh produce section is full of surprises:
Durian:
Strong smell, but many say it’s worth it once you get used to it.
Jackfruit:
Great in both sweet and savoury dishes.
Lotus Root & Wax Gourd:
Perfect for soups and stir-fries.
Garlic Shoots (Swanta):
Mild garlic flavour – delicious in stir-fries.
Cooking at Home with Your Finds
With all these amazing ingredients, you can get creative in the kitchen.
Here are a few easy ideas:
Garlic Shoots with Beef Stir-Fry – Quick, tasty, and full of flavour.
Lotus Root & Wax Gourd Soup – Warm, hearty and great on cooler days.
Rice Crackers as a Snack – Sweet and salty – perfect for parties or afternoon tea.
What It’s Like to Visit
Walking through Alchester Asia Mart is more than just shopping – it’s a full-on experience.
The shelves are packed with colourful packets, there’s the smell of fresh produce in the air, and the vibe is lively with people picking out their favourites and chatting about what to cook.
Final Thoughts
If you are bored of the same old supermarket aisles or want to connect more with Brisbane’s Asian food culture, Alchester Asia Mart is a must-visit.
You will discover loads of new ingredients to try, and you’ll probably leave with a few new favourites.
So next time you are near Sunnybank, drop in and explore!
Whether you are cooking a traditional Asian meal or just keen to try something new and different, this market has something for every curious foodie.
And the best part?
You don’t need to travel overseas – a world of flavour is right here in Brisbane
