Manila Convenience Store

Growing up; whenever I wanted authentic Filipino desserts and snacks that my Mom would talk about, we had to wait for a giant Balikbayan (Literally «Go Home,» or «Go back to the Homeland») box to arrive at the house. Usually three times a year. Then we moved to Daly City, which is like mini-​Manila right in the Bay Area. Pandesal, Polvoron, Choc-​Nut were all suddenly down the block, instead of a three month wait.
Manila Convenience Store reminds me of those times. Everyone who works here is incredibly friendly, remembers your name, and what you like. They’ll set a couple aside for you if you mention it’s your favorite. They’ll patiently listen to your out-​of-​practice Tagalog. A couple of times a week, they’ll get fresh baked goods in. I’ll undo a week’s worth of sit-​ups for fresh sapin-​sapin covered in toasted coconut. Stop here for snacks and then Willow Park Wine & Spirits for San Miguel, and you’ll have all the things you need for a Pacquiao Fight-​Night party. Even frozen banana leaves to thaw out and place on the table, for extra fanciness!
If the steep prices at the few Calgary Filipino restaurants have deterred you, you can pick up Filipino delicacies in one of the many freezers at Manila Convenience; to re-​heat and try out at home. What I always get? The vegan salt and vinegar pork rinds :).

Now this is the real deal in terms of Filipino grocery stores on Bonaventure Drive. Manila Convenience Store changed its name from another tie-​in to Filipino culture which escapes me at the moment, but the service level and selection remain the same — that is to say unparalleled. There are around 25 freezers lining the store like a soft down pillow, filled to the brim with frozen packets of longanesa, tocino, spring roll wrapping papers and other assorted breakfast and lunch delicacies. At least I would imagine they are packed at some point because people go through that stuff quick!
The rows are tightly packed together, and the shelves are tightly packed with assorted goodies: pork rinds, lechon sauce, salty crisps and sweet treats, hot chocolate mix, toiletries — you name it, chances are you can find it here. And of course the staff are quite helpful and friendly, with the occasional language barrier mishap adding to the overall pleasantness. A gem of a grocery store!
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