Laurel's Ethnic Market Meccas

If you’re planning an initial visit to Manila Asian Foods in Laurel, it will be hard to make it on a Saturday. The place is packed.

“It’s like a fiesta in here," said Tina Lorete, who along with her husband, owns the tiny corner market in a strip shopping center on Fort Meade Road.

Manila Asian  Foods specializes in foods from the Philippines such as longanisa (sausage), pan de sal (bread), Jasmine rice, rice noodles and much more. Although the Philippines is in Asia (off the coast of the mainland) people have a misconception of what foods they offer, explains the owner.

Because of their unique inventory, the store attracts people from all over the mid-Atlantic, said Lorete.

“We have people who come from Pennsylvania and all over Maryland. They are longtime customers who tell us this is their weekend outing,” she said with laughter.

One attractive incentive for shoppers is Lorete gives specifics how-to's for each item, not just recipes. Shoppers come in curious about certain sundries, such as round scad--a popular cigar-shaped fish--or plantains, a fruit harvested green.

“I don’t mind at all. I love that they are interested in knowing how to prepare different kinds of foods. And it’s good for my business because they buy the products here,” she said.

Lorete and her husband purchased the business in 2003 and made substantial changes including expanding their product line and making the store more orderly and conducive to shopping.

The store has a cozy ambiance. Upon entering, a ceiling-tall banana tree sets a tropical mood. A small round table entices visitors to sit and have a chat with the friendly and informative owners. The store is immaculate and the walking aisle is clear and clean.

Long, Lorete’s  husband, unloads packages of cakes, rolls and pastry. All of Manila’s foods are prepackaged or frozen.

“We are a very small store so it is very important to make the shopping experience pleasant. We want customers to tell other customers with hopes they will come and see what we’re about.”

Asked if the store is overshadowed by the huge Amish market, located a few stores away in the same shopping center, Lorete responds, “Oh no, we get a lot of their customers who are just walking around and then stop in to see what we sell. Parking can sometimes be a problem. But it all works out.”