Frontier Market in Hartsdale: Great Japanese Beef, Sushi & Sashimi at Affordable Prices

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

If you are looking for authentic Japanese beef, fresh sushi, sashimi, and Japanese groceries near New York City, there is a place worth discovering in Hartsdale, New York: Frontier Market.

For people living in Manhattan, Hartsdale may feel a little far compared with Japanese grocery stores in the city. However, if you have a car—or are willing to rent one—the trip can be worthwhile, especially if you are looking for high-quality Japanese beef at reasonable prices.

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One of the things that makes Frontier Market interesting is its selection of Japanese meat and seafood, including fresh beef, sushi, and sashimi.

What Can You Find at Frontier Market?

Here are some of the highlights that make Frontier Market worth a visit:

Fresh Japanese beef
Japanese-style sushi
Fresh sashimi
Discounted sushi
Discounted fresh sashimi
Japanese groceries and food products

The prices can be surprisingly reasonable compared with what you might expect for Japanese food products in the New York City area.

Japanese Beef at a Great Price

If you enjoy Japanese beef, Frontier Market is especially interesting.

Japanese beef is famous around the world for its rich marbling and delicate texture. While Kobe beef is perhaps the best-known name internationally, there are many different varieties and grades of Japanese beef.

At Frontier Market, you may find Japanese beef at prices that seem considerably more affordable than those at specialty stores or restaurants in Manhattan.

For anyone who loves Japanese cooking, this can be a great place to stock up for a special dinner at home.

Don’t Miss the Sushi and Sashimi Discounts

Another reason I like checking Frontier Market is the discounted sushi and sashimi.

Fresh sashimi can be expensive in New York City, so finding discounted products can make Japanese food at home much more affordable.

Depending on the day and timing of your visit, you may find sushi or fresh sashimi marked down significantly.

If you are specifically looking for discounts, it is worth checking what is available when you visit rather than expecting the same selection every day.

Why Is Frontier Market So Affordable?

You may wonder how a store can offer Japanese beef and seafood at such reasonable prices.

One possible reason is the way the business operates.

Frontier Market is not simply a traditional Japanese supermarket carrying a large selection of imported products. Its business model includes a strong focus on meat and fresh food, which can help keep the supply chain more direct.

Japanese products can also be shipped directly from Japan, including by air freight for fresh products. A more direct relationship between the supplier and retailer can potentially reduce some of the costs and middlemen involved in distribution.

The store also appears to operate with a relatively simple setup and fewer employees than some larger supermarkets. Lower overhead costs can be another factor that allows a retailer to offer competitive prices.

Of course, prices and availability change, so I recommend checking the products and prices for yourself when you visit.

Is Frontier Market Worth the Trip from Manhattan?

If you live in Manhattan, this is probably not the place you would visit just to buy one or two groceries. Hartsdale is in Westchester County, north of New York City, and getting there is much easier if you have access to a car. However, if you are planning a larger Japanese grocery shopping trip, the visit can make more sense.

You can combine your shopping trip with buying:

Japanese beef
Sushi
Sashimi
Japanese groceries
Ingredients for Japanese cooking

For Japanese food lovers, the savings can make the trip worthwhile.

A Good Option for Japanese Food Lovers Near NYC

Living in New York City does not mean you have to limit yourself to Japanese grocery stores in Manhattan.

There are Japanese supermarkets and specialty stores throughout the New York metropolitan area, and sometimes traveling outside the city can give you access to different products and better prices.

Frontier Market in Hartsdale is one place I would recommend checking out if you are looking for Japanese beef, sushi, sashimi, and Japanese groceries at reasonable prices. If you have a car, it can be an especially convenient option for a larger shopping trip. And if you are a fan of Japanese beef, don’t forget to check the fresh meat section!

Final Thoughts

For me, one of the most interesting things about Frontier Market is the combination of quality and affordability. Japanese beef and fresh sashimi can be expensive in New York, but shopping directly from a specialty market can sometimes make these foods much more accessible.

So, if you are willing to drive outside Manhattan, Frontier Market in Hartsdale, New York, may be worth adding to your list of Japanese grocery stores to explore.

Prices, discounts, and product availability can change depending on the day. Please check the store directly for the latest information before making a special trip.

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Katagiri Japanese Grocery Store in NYC: A Historic Japanese Market in Manhattan

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

If you are looking for Japanese groceries in New York City, Katagiri Japanese Grocery is one of the first places I recommend.

Located in Midtown Manhattan, Katagiri is much more than a Japanese grocery store. Established in 1907, it is the oldest Japanese grocery store in the United States and has been part of New York City’s Japanese community for more than a century.

For Japanese people living in New York, Katagiri can feel like a little piece of Japan in Manhattan. For non-Japanese visitors, it is also a wonderful place to discover Japanese food, snacks, drinks, cooking ingredients, and prepared foods.

Where Is Katagiri Japanese Grocery?

Katagiri currently has two Manhattan locations.

59th Street Store

Katagiri Japanese Grocery
224 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022

The store is located between Second and Third Avenues in Midtown East. According to Katagiri’s official website, the 59th Street location is open every day from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Grand Central Location

Katagiri Grand Central
370 Lexington Avenue, Suite 107
New York, NY 10017

This location is particularly convenient if you work in Midtown or are traveling through Grand Central.

The official hours are 8:00 AM–9:00 PM Monday through Friday and 10:00 AM–8:00 PM on weekends and holidays.

For the most current information, it is always a good idea to check Katagiri’s official website before visiting.

What Can You Buy at Katagiri?

One of the things I enjoy about Japanese grocery stores in New York is that you can find both everyday Japanese staples and products that are difficult to find at regular American supermarkets.

Katagiri carries a wide range of Japanese food products, including:

Japanese rice
Miso
Soy sauce
Japanese noodles
Curry products
Japanese seasonings
Tofu
Seaweed and nori
Japanese snacks and candy
Green tea and other Japanese drinks
Frozen foods
Refrigerated foods
Seafood
Japanese sweets
Prepared foods

The online store also lists a very large selection of Japanese grocery products, including soy sauce, takuan, azuki beans, tofu, green tea, and many other Japanese staples.

Japanese Snacks and Drinks

If you are nostalgic for Japan, the snack section alone can be fun to explore.

You may find familiar Japanese candies, crackers, chips, cookies, drinks, and seasonal products. For Japanese people living in New York, these small things can be surprisingly comforting.

Sometimes you don’t realize how much you miss a particular Japanese snack until you see it sitting on a shelf in Manhattan!

Katagiri is also a good place to look for Japanese tea and bottled drinks.

Prepared Japanese Food for a Quick Lunch

Another reason Katagiri is popular is its selection of prepared foods.

Depending on the location and availability, shoppers can find items such as sushi, sashimi, rice bowls, ramen, bento-style meals, and onigiri. Recent customer reviews also frequently mention prepared lunch options and fresh seafood.

This makes Katagiri especially convenient for people who work in Midtown and want a quick Japanese lunch without going to a sit-down restaurant.

At the Grand Central location, prepared foods and onigiri are particularly popular with commuters and office workers. Katagiri Japanese Grocery

A Convenient Japanese Grocery Store in Manhattan

For me, one of the biggest advantages of Katagiri is simply its location.

New York City is incredibly convenient in many ways, but finding specific Japanese ingredients can sometimes require some planning.

Having a historic Japanese grocery store in Midtown means you can stop by while running errands, going to work, sightseeing, or traveling through Grand Central.

The Grand Central location is particularly convenient for commuters.

The 59th Street location is a good choice if you are in the Upper Midtown or Midtown East area.

Final Thoughts: Why Katagiri Is Worth Visiting

For anyone searching for a Japanese grocery store in NYC, Katagiri is worth knowing. It offers something that goes beyond groceries. It is a small but important part of Japanese history in New York City.

Whether you are Japanese and looking for a taste of home, an American interested in Japanese cooking, a tourist curious about Japanese food, or simply someone looking for a quick and convenient lunch in Midtown, Katagiri is a great place to explore. And perhaps the most interesting thing about the store is its history.

Official Website: Katagiri Japanese Grocery

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Discover Oishinbo Japanese Store in Harrison: A Hidden Gem for Authentic Japanese Goods

Oishinbo Japanese Store in Harrison, NY

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, culture, or unique Japanese goods, Oishinbo Japanese Store in Harrison is a must-visit destination. Located just a short drive from New York City, this charming store offers a wide variety of authentic Japanese products that will transport you straight to Japan. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for something special, Oishinbo provides an unmatched experience.

Yelp link of Oishinbo

Why Oishinbo Japanese Store is a Must-Visit in Harrison

Oishinbo Japanese Store stands out for its carefully curated selection of Japanese food, snacks, kitchenware, and cultural items. Whether you’re preparing for a Japanese-themed dinner at home or looking for a unique gift, you’ll find something special here. The store is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing top-notch products that ensure you experience Japan’s rich culture from the comfort of your own home.

Check Japanese food cooking pages also !

What You Can Find at Oishinbo Japanese Store

Authentic Japanese Snacks and Ingredients Oishinbo offers an impressive range of snacks, from savory rice crackers to sweet mochi, as well as all the essential ingredients to create your own Japanese meals at home. You’ll find premium soy sauce, miso, rice, noodles, and spices that make Japanese cooking a breeze.
Japanese Kitchenware and Tableware For those who appreciate fine craftsmanship, Oishinbo carries a stunning selection of Japanese kitchenware and tableware. From delicate teacups to high-quality knives, these products not only serve as functional tools but also as beautiful works of art.
Gifts and Cultural Items If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or gifts, the store features a variety of traditional Japanese items like kimonos, origami paper, and handcrafted pottery. These items make for thoughtful gifts and perfect keepsakes.

Oishinbo’s Commitment to Quality

One of the things that sets Oishinbo apart is its dedication to quality. Every item in the store is handpicked, ensuring that only the best products are offered to customers. Whether it’s their authentic Japanese tea or premium-quality knives, you can trust that you’re getting the real deal when you shop here.

The Convenient Location in Harrison

Oishinbo is conveniently located in Harrison, making it easily accessible for those in the Westchester area or those coming from New York City. The cozy, inviting atmosphere of the store makes it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to explore Japanese culture and bring a piece of Japan back home.

Customer Reviews: What People Are Saying About Oishinbo

Customers rave about the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the extensive product range, and the authentic feel of the store. Many appreciate the store’s attention to detail and its commitment to providing high-quality goods. It’s a top spot for foodies, collectors, and anyone looking to dive deeper into Japanese culture.

Conclusion: A Slice of Japan in Harrison

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Oishinbo Japanese Store is a hidden gem that offers an authentic Japanese shopping experience. With its wide selection of foods, kitchenware, and cultural items, it’s the perfect place to explore the flavors and craftsmanship of Japan. Stop by and experience Japan like never before.

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Tsumo Omakase in New York: A Reasonably Priced Sushi Omakase Experience

If you’re looking for a popular sushi spot for young couples in New York, Tsumo Omakase is a must-try.
This restaurant offers a fun, approachable omakase-style sushi experience — where every visit brings something new and special. Let’s explore what makes Tsumo Omakase stand out.

About Tsumo Omakase

Tsumo Omakase is a highly rated sushi restaurant in New York City.
“Omakase” in Japanese means “I’ll leave it up to you,” referring to a dining style where the chef selects the day’s best ingredients to create a personalized menu.

While it may not be exactly like traditional sushi in Japan, the restaurant is run by young, passionate Asian chefs who put great care into every piece they serve.

The Charm of the Omakase Menu

The biggest draw of Tsumo Omakase is its ever-changing chef’s menu.
Each visit brings a new lineup of creative dishes made from the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Seasonal seafood: Enjoy fish and shellfish at their peak flavor.
Creative dishes: The menu combines classic sushi techniques with modern twists.
Perfect balance: Each bite feels thoughtfully balanced in flavor and texture — perhaps thanks to the small sushi portions.

Atmosphere and Service

Alt="the inside of Tsumo Sushi restaurant cosy stylish design"

The interior of Tsumo Omakase is modern and stylish, with soft lighting and refined decor creating a relaxed and intimate mood.
At the counter, you can watch the chefs’ precise techniques up close — part of what makes omakase dining so immersive.

The staff are professional, attentive, and provide exceptional service throughout the experience.

Where Is It?

Tsumo Omakase is located in New York City (exact address varies by location).
It’s a cozy, counter-only restaurant — no tables, which adds to its intimate vibe.

Summary

If you want to enjoy an omakase-style sushi experience in New York without breaking the bank, Tsumo Omakase is a fantastic choice.
It’s especially popular among young couples, but perfect for friends too.
With its affordable pricing, relaxed atmosphere, and ever-changing menu, it’s one of New York’s hidden sushi gems.

How to Prepare Beets Easily with an Instant Pot — A Simple Japanese Home Recipe

how to cook beets in an Instant Pot Japanese recipe — A Simple Japanese Home Recipe

Hello everyone! I’m Maegami from the blog Megami no Maegami (Goddess’s Bangs).
Today’s post is from my Home Cooking Series, and we’re talking about a colorful superfood — beets!

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

You might know beets from the famous Russian soup borscht, but in New York, they often show up in salads. Personally, I used to dislike beets — they tasted earthy, overly sweet, and cold, which didn’t appeal to me. I also assumed they wouldn’t go well with Japanese dishes.

However, after learning that beets are a powerful superfood packed with nutrients, I decided to give them another try — this time, cooking them my way.

Why Use an Instant Pot for Beets?

The method I’ll share today uses the Instant Pot, making beet preparation easy, fast, and delicious.
Once cooked, you can use these beets in any dish — salads, side dishes, or even Japanese-style meals.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

If you don’t already own an Instant Pot, it’s one of the best investments for busy home cooks! You can cook rice, beans, soups, and even make Japanese dishes like natto, nimono, and chawanmushi.

Here are a few items I personally use and recommend:

Instant Pot Duo 6-Quart 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
👉 Check price on Amazon (affiliate link)
Instant Pot Stainless Steel Trivet (if yours didn’t come with one)
👉 See it on Amazon (affiliate link)
Organic Beetroot Powder (for smoothies or natural coloring)
👉 View on Amazon (affiliate link)

💡 As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps keep this blog running — thank you!

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I’ve finally overcome my fear of beets!

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What You’ll Need

3 large beets (or 4–5 small ones — try to choose similar sizes for even cooking)
1 cup of water (about 200ml)
Instant Pot + trivet (comes with the pot)

Beets often come with their leaves attached — don’t throw them away!
They’re full of nutrients, and later I’ll show you how to cook them too.

Trim the leaves, leaving about 2 cm of the stems on the beet roots. Keep the leaves aside for later.

Quick and Easy Beet Prep (No Peeling Needed!)

Many recipes tell you to peel and dice beets before cooking — but that takes time and limits how you can use them later.
My version cooks them whole with the skins on, saving time and effort.

You can store the cooked beets in the fridge with the skin on, then peel and slice when needed — the skin slips off easily.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wash the beets thoroughly. Farmers’ market beets can be quite muddy. Don’t forget to wash the leaves too.
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot.
Place the trivet inside the pot.
Arrange the beets evenly on the trivet (cut large ones in half if needed).
Seal the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
Select “Pressure Cook” → “High Pressure” → 20 minutes.
Let the pressure release naturally (wait for the float valve to drop).
Remove the beets and peel the skins — they should slip off easily.
Slice or dice as you like!

Now your beets are ready to use in any recipe — cube them for salads, or slice them thinly for Japanese-style side dishes.

Cooking with Beets and Beet Leaves

Once you’ve prepped the beets, the fun begins!

For salads: Slice beets, drizzle with sesame oil and salt, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top. The sesame oil removes the earthy smell and pairs beautifully with rice.
For the leaves: Stir-fry with garlic, soy sauce, mirin, and a little avocado oil. It tastes similar to spinach but with a nice crunch from the stems.

If you’re not a garlic fan, skip it — or add a pinch of shichimi (Japanese chili mix) for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

That’s it! This is my quick and easy method for preparing beets using an Instant Pot.
The result? Soft, sweet beets that melt in your mouth — nothing like the earthy, cold ones you find in store-bought salads.

Beets are great for your health, but don’t overdo it! Eating too many can turn your urine or stool reddish — that’s just the pigment, not a health issue. But if it happens without eating beets, see a doctor.

I hope this inspires you to try cooking beets at home.
If you enjoyed this post, check out my homemade natto recipe using the Instant Pot — it’s another fun and healthy Japanese dish!

What Is Sunrise Mart? A Look at New York’s Famous Japanese Grocery

What Is Sunrise Mart in New York?

When it comes to Japanese supermarkets in New York, Sunrise Mart is probably the most famous. Its first store opened in the East Village, though sadly that location has since closed.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

When I first came to New York in 2001, Sunrise Mart was a lively Japanese grocery where almost all the staff were Japanese. It truly sparkled as a symbol of Japanese culture in Manhattan.

Sunrise Mart After the Pandemic

Post-pandemic, the Japanese population in Manhattan has decreased significantly. As a result, many of the current staff at Sunrise Mart are international.

In the early 2000s, many Japanese workers were undocumented, but with today’s stricter visa rules, the situation has changed. Still, Sunrise Mart remains a beloved place for both Japanese expats and locals.

Where Is Sunrise Mart Midtown Located?

The Sunrise Mart I’m introducing today is located in Midtown Manhattan, a busy business district filled with white-collar workers.

Since I often visit the nearby New York Public Library, I frequently stop by Sunrise Mart for groceries or a quick bite.

👉 Read about the New York Public Library here

The Entrance of Sunrise Mart Midtown

Unlike before, the Midtown store is now divided into two spaces:

One for fresh groceries
One for prepared meals and dining

If you want to eat, head to the west-side entrance. If you’re shopping for groceries, enter through the east-side entrance. Both look quite similar, so don’t get confused (laughs)

Sunrise Mart Bento Boxes

During the 2022 inflation peak, bento prices skyrocketed, reaching nearly $18 per box. Thankfully, prices have come down a bit, though compared to Japan, they’re still shockingly high.

Salmon Bento: about $19 (¥1,900)
Mackerel Bento: about $16 (¥1,600)

In Tokyo, the same bento would cost around ¥500!

Nutritious and Thoughtful Bento Options

Despite the high prices, Sunrise Mart’s bentos are well-balanced. Alongside salmon or mackerel, you’ll find side dishes like chikuzen-ni (simmered vegetables) and isobe-age (seaweed fried items).

For students or busy professionals living alone, these thoughtful extras provide much-needed nutrition.

Café Space on the Second Floo

The Midtown Sunrise Mart also has a second-floor café-like space. It’s a cozy area where you can sit and enjoy your meal. While it doesn’t offer Wi-Fi, it’s still a relaxing spot to take a break.

Conclusion

In 2023, Sunrise Mart continues to thrive in New York, even though the Japanese community has shrunk since the pandemic. Once a supermarket catering almost exclusively to Japanese expats, it has now become an internationally loved grocery store.

Whether you’re craving a Japanese bento, shopping for imported groceries, or just curious about Japanese food culture in NYC, Sunrise Mart is a must-visit.

How to Make Homemade Natto with an Instant Pot

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Recently, natto has been getting renewed attention for its incredible health benefits. Known as one of the top 5 healthiest foods for your body, natto is cheap and easy to find in Japan with many varieties available.

But for those of us living overseas, natto is often frozen, expensive, and sometimes disappointing. In New York, the price of natto can be more than three times higher than in Japan.

I love natto so much that I decided to make it myself at home. By using organic soybeans and an Instant Pot, you can easily make delicious homemade natto right in your own kitchen.

What is an Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot is a popular electric multi-cooker in Canada and the U.S. It’s not just for stews and steaming—it can also be used to make fermented foods like yogurt, natto, shio-koji, and amazake. You can find it at an affordable price on Amazon. – Buy here

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

How to Make Homemade Natto in an Instant Pot

1: Prepare the Soybeans

Beginners can start with 250g of soybeans.
Soak them in water for about 8 hours. The beans will double in size.

2: Steam the Soybeans

Place soaked soybeans in a stainless strainer.
Put the strainer on the roasting rack inside the Instant Pot.
Add about 5mm of water to the bottom.
Set to Steam Mode for 60 minutes.

Pressure Settings for the Steam:

High Pressure: softer beans (better for sticky natto).
Low Pressure: firmer beans with more bite.

My preference: 500g beans at High Pressure for 60 minutes.

Experiment Results:

20 min: Hard beans, mild smell, fewer sticky strings.
45 min: Softer, stronger aroma, more sticky texture.
60 min: Brownish beans, perfect stickiness, natto bacteria thrive.

3: Make Natto Starte

Mix 1 pack of store-bought natto with a small amount of hot water.
Sterilize all tools with boiling water.
Mix this “natto starter water” evenly with the steamed soybeans.

4: Set Up for Fermentatio

Place beans in a container and cover with a plastic bag with small holes – Air for the Bacteria.
Put a paper towel on top.
Do not close the Instant Pot lid—just place it gently on top.

5: Fermentation

Set the Instant Pot to Yogurt Mode for 24 hours.
Stir once after 12 hours.

6: Finishing

Stir the fermented natto well so the bacteria spread evenly.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Natto Smell Tips

Freshly made natto has a strong odor, especially with ammonia notes. If you live with non-Japanese roommates or family, warn them first!

To reduce odor: leave the container slightly open at room temperature for a few hours.
Storing in the fridge will naturally mellow the smell over time.

Storage & Shelf Life

Natto doesn’t spoil easily. Even with 500g (enough for two people), it keeps well for over two weeks in the refrigerator.

Homemade natto is not only healthier but also far more cost-effective than buying expensive imported natto overseas.

Conclusion

That’s how to make homemade natto with an Instant Pot! Compared to store-bought versions, homemade natto has stronger stickiness, better texture, and saves you money if you live abroad.

If you’re a natto lover—or just curious about fermented foods—give it a try!

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