Monday, May 18, 2026 7:56PM
CHERRY HILL, N.J. (WPVI) — HMart in Cherry Hill just reopened after a massive renovation and expansion after 25 years of serving the local community. The Korean grocery chain was founded by Il Yeon Kwon in 1982 in Queens, New York. After nearly 45 years, the chain now boasts 100 stores and a growing interest in their inventory of Korean foods and novelties.
Also in the world of Asian foods, the purple yam grown in the Phillipines knows as ‘ube’ is facing a global shortage due to viral exposure of sweets and drinks featuring its vibrant purple color and unique taste. Chef Chance Anies attests to how hard it is to find anymore, as he likes to incorporate the ingredient into menu items at his Filipino-forward restaurants, Manong and Tabachoy.
Filipino grocer Julius Nery also notes the shortage as he stocks the shelves of his Pinoy Groseri in the Northeast, but he always has an extensive selection of ube-flavored items and Filipino staples. On weekends, he also cooks and serves hot dishes of Filipino favorites, available for takeout or delivery.
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