Real Produce Market

t E REAL PRODUCE m AR k

Photos by TARA KOTHARI

Art by LAUREN YAN

Text by SEBASTIAN BONNARD and TARA KOTHARI

NEW PALO ALTO STORE OFFERS MULTICULTURAL PRODUCTS

WELCOMED BY shelves the third grocer to open at the location laden with a vast selection since the closures of College Terrace Market of ambrosial, foreign and and Khoury’s Market. The excitement that local produce along with followed the announcement of a new marboxes and crates labeled in languages from ket opening was palpable as many residents Cyrillic to Urdu, shoppers quickly realize eagerly awaited the empty space to be filled. that Real Produce International Market “A lot of the customers really enjoy the is not the average grocery store. Vibrant different foods … it’s just very convenient chatter fills the market as customers — for them because the prices are really good,” distanced and sporting their masks — go Paly senior and Real Produce International about their shopping. Market employee Esme Villalobos said. “It’s Located at the College Terrace Center on 501 Oxford Ave., Real Produce In“It’s a joy to witness very often when folks just pop in here … and find something a very open place to shop at … and the owners are really sweet.” Real Produce ternational Market has caught the unexpected that makes International Market also carattention of many them nostalgic or ecstatic.” ries a multitude since its opening of items to cater on Dec. 28. In — KHALED TAFFI, CEO of Real to those who celaddition to offer- Produce International Market ebrate festivities ing fresh produce, such as Nowruz, the family-owned Ramadan and grocery store carries halal meats and a va- Passover, as well as to those who are simply riety of prepared foods for reasonable pric- exploring their diverse offerings. es. Perhaps the most unique aspect of the “Nothing brings people together like market is the extensive selection of interna- food does, and we are happy to be the tional products with many Middle Eastern place for that,” Taffi wrote. “We also have and European items that cannot be found cooking enthusiasts come in looking for inelsewhere in Palo Alto. gredients they have never cooked with but

“There isn’t a store like ours in this area. would like to try … Ottolenghi’s recipes … This is a very diverse community and seem to be particularly popular.” to cater to this diversity, we bring differ- While the market offers locally sourced ent products,” Real Produce International seasonal and organic products, foreign Market CEO Khaled Taffi wrote in a mes- goods are imported from a variety of counsage to Verde. “A lot of these are comfort tries ranging from Peru to Saudi Arabia. foods that take them [the customers] back “We bring different products such as to their childhood … It’s a joy to witness Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Persian, very often when folks just pop in here … East European, Indian, Turkish … some and find something unexpected that makes produce is also sourced from other counthem nostalgic or ecstatic.” tries like Mexico, Chile, etc.,” Taffi wrote.

The Palo Alto City Council ap- The market’s family atmosphere has proved Taffi’s request to open the drawn customers in since their opening. market on Nov. 16, making Taffi hopes to foster a strong sense of Real Produce Interna- community through the market. tional Market “We are so grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and hope to become a ‘Real’ member of the neighborhood for years to come,” Taffi wrote. v

FRESH FROM THE FARM (TOP LEFT) — Vibrant and delectable fresh produce fill the shelves throughout the market. “Our goal is to provide high-quality goods at reasonable prices and a customer experience that keeps bringing you back,” Real Produce International Market CEO Khaled Taffi wrote. GOLDEN GOODIES (TOP RIGHT) — Baklava and other confectionery items and baked goods at the market tempt customers from afar — especially those with a sweet tooth. SCINTILLATING SHAWARMA (BOTTOM) — An employee cuts shawarma as he prepares a customer’s order. A popular item from the store is the Chicken Shawarma Wrap. “The food court serves a Middle Eastern fare of falafel, shawarma platters & wraps,” Taffi wrote.

Ziyad Iraqi Style Date Syrup ($3.39)

A staple of Iraqi cuisine, dates are included in many dishes with their sweet, aromatic taste typically complemented with more savory items. For those looking for a substitute for maple syrup or honey, date syrup pairs perfectly with anything from breads to cured meats.

Sadaf Ajvar Mild Red Pepper Spread ($4.39)

A rich combination of eggplant, olive oil, red peppers and salt creates this Balkan spread with a plethora of different uses. Whether used to liven up pasta dishes or served with warm pita bread, the Ajvar’s polished tang is a must-have.

Real Produce International Market’s Spanakotiropita ($2.50)

The market’s deli includes a wide assortment of prepared meats, baked goods and quick bites. Among their best is the classic, yet ever so decadent spanakotiropita — Greek for “spinach-cheese pie.” The layers of flaky, crispy dough filled with crumbly feta and leafy spinach make for a perfect snack. Mashky Yogurt Soda ($1.99)

This beverage is for the more adventurous foodies out there. The minty, carbonated drink is a surprisingly refreshing Middle Eastern alternative for a Coke or Pepsi. Tangy and chilling, it is best accompanied with sweets or pastries.