Great Wall

I do shop here occasionally, because it is the Asian market closest to where I live, but it’s not one of my favourite places to shop. What bothers me most about it is the pretty horrible smell emanating from the small plastic tanks full of live eels that are sitting right next to the door (not to mention the fact that I generally don’t like the idea of live animals being crammed into a small container waiting to be killed). That said, it does provide most of the essentials I need for Asian cooking, so it’s worth going to if you live here, urgently need some tofu, udon noodles or what-​have-​you and can’t be bothered going to one of the bigger markets located in Mare Street and elsewhere. (For the non-​veggies among you: I’ve already mentioned the eels, but it’s also good for all kinds of other animals and organs thereof, should you find yourself in the mood for some hearts, livers, etc.)

This is an excellent, small Asian market on Lower Clapton Road. We come in here on a regular basis to buy tofu, lemongrass, dried shitake mushrooms and the like. A good Asian supermarket is really essential for the sort of cooking we do, and Great Wall fits the spot perfectly. Recommended for all those living in the area.