Allyson Tadros, Class II and Ariana Rangini, Class II
Photo credit: Eve Kagami, Class II
Nestled among the different shops on Grand Street between Manhattan Ave and Leonard Ave, a new storefront has quickly become popular among Brooklyn Latin students during their lunch periods, and even after school. What has seamlessly become a staple among teachers and students alike is a shop providing quick and easy meals for those trying to grab a quick bite, or for those wanting to stock up on snacks and groceries. Ranging from shelves and shelves of ramen, a variety of onigiri, a juice bar, tons of different Asian snacks, and even a bubble tea selection, there is something for everyone.
Ubi Market, which opened in September of 2023, is a store that was reintroduced as a Korean Market, after the location served as a food and veggie store. Even though this is a recently opened establishment, they are rapidly growing, having already incorporated a second microwave and a water dispenser to fit the needs of many customers. One of the owners, Jesica, worked in the previous establishment in this location, which her mom owned for almost thirty years. Jesica grew up there working with her brother and watching her mom. The store is currently owned by Jesica and her husband Jay, with the help of her brother Armando. The owners consider their store to be family-oriented, which makes the store even more welcoming and filled with good spirits at all times.
Inspired by convenience stores in Korea, what makes this shop so special is the family ties that it has, as well as how it's a place for people of different cultures to come together and get a taste of something they had possibly never tried before. The owners say that the amount of different people they see is refreshing, with the diversity of Williamsburg specifically helping aid that factor. With the Brooklyn Latin student body consisting of an 81% minority enrollment and a large population of Asian students at 49%, Ubi Market is the place to try foods from your peers’ cultures and embrace diversity.
What the owners didn't expect, however, was an influx of high school students looking for a place to purchase food during their lunch breaks and after school, which they welcomed with open arms. Ubi Market, being about a six minute walk from Brooklyn Latin, has gained popularity among the school community. The owners are always listening for any recommendations the students have for incorporating any Asian snacks they may enjoy, or potential snacks from their home countries. There is even a weekly raffle which provides high school students with a chance to win a free rice ball and cup of bubble tea. Some of the best selling items amongst high school students to try are the ‘Samyang Carbonara Hot Chicken Ramen’ and onigiri, Japanese rice balls.
Ubi Market is a definite must-visit location for anyone with interest in trying something new and being immersed in a variety of different cultures and flavors. Check it out for yourself and support a small local business: 655 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211!
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