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The Best International Markets Near Seattle

Last Updated: March 17, 2026

Explore Asian, African, Filipino & Latin Markets in Seattle Southside

One of the more underrated novelties when visiting a new country is dipping into its markets and seeing how locals eat and shop.

In Seattle Southside, a region that includes SeaTac, Tukwila, and Des Moines, you can have that experience without flying abroad. As one of the most diverse areas in the country, it's home to dozens of stores where you can find imported products and immerse yourself in the sights and smells of another culture. Try a novel snack, pick up ingredients to recreate a dish you love, and browse clothing and home goods. Read on to find some of the best international markets near Seattle.

Pictured: Tawakal Mini Market in SeaTac

Lam's Seafood Asian Market

Lam's Seafood Asian Market is a highly popular grocery store specializing in Vietnamese products. This family-run business is a gathering spot for the local community, offering a wide variety of high-quality imported ingredients, including hard-to-find fresh produce and tropical fruits, as well as cooking supplies and other home goods. It's also a go-to for Lunar New Year decor and food, and hosts an annual lion dance and celebration for the holiday.

Ready-Made Food: Inside Lam's, there's an entire food court, The Eatery, where you can find mochi donuts, bubble tea, bahn mi, pho, and more. Don't miss Natalie's Sugarcane & Dessert, which offers boba, fresh-squeezed sugarcane juice, and Vietnamese street food.

Boulevard Market

Boulevard Market is a small, welcoming market in SeaTac that carries pantry staples from India, Nepal, and various other countries. You can also find fresh produce, frozen food, and popular snacks from many parts of the world, including Central America and Europe. The candy selection alone makes it worth a visit!

Ready-Made Food: In addition to the shelves full of imported products, an enticing pastry case at the counter draws your eye to vibrant, freshly made sweets. Sample bright pink cham cham, syrupy gulab jamun, and milk cake, or satisfy your hunger with savory fried samosas.

Tawakal Market

Tawakal Mini Market is a mainstay of the local community, offering a wide variety of pantry staples and snacks imported from many different countries. There's an especially large selection of East African goods, including beans, coffee, tea, spices, and sweets. Don't miss the cold beverage section: you'll find many drinks not available at typical American stores. In addition, you'll find halal meats, home goods, and formal jewelry and clothing.

Ready-Made Food: Pick up ready-to-eat hot food, such as flaky sambusas, at the counter. Or, head next door to the adjoining restaurant, Zain Restaurant & Bakery Cafe, for fresh-baked pastries, traditional Somali food, gyros, and sandwiches.

Seafood City Supermarket

You might be surprised to find that one of the best places to find Filipino groceries is tucked inside Westfield Southcenter, the state's largest shopping center. Seafood City Supermarket is known for its incredible fish and shellfish, baked goods, fresh produce, and occasional late-night dance parties. This national chain has made Filipino cuisine more available across the U.S., but the Tukwila location has a special feel, serving as a hub for the local community.

Ready-Made Food: Grill City inside the store offers Filipino comfort food, including

D'licias Mexican Market

Tucked away in Des Moines' Marina District is D'licias Mexican Market, a small but well-stocked grocery offering Mexican and Latin American products. It's a chip-lover's dream, with all the spicy flavors you can imagine. You can also find sweets, cold beverages, frozen food, pantry staples, and a small selection of fresh produce.

Ready-Made Food: The market is connected to an ice cream shop, Sweet D'licias, where you can get nieves de gafa and street food like esquites.

SeaTac International Mall

SeaTac International Mall, also known as SeaTac Somali Mall, is a vibrant shopping center that combines multiple services and businesses under one roof. The SeaTac International Market & Deli specializes in halal and African food products, including snacks, pantry staples, and prepared food. There is also an auto dealer, several apparel retailers selling elegant clothing and accessories, and a barber shop.

More to Explore

Inspired to continue your exploration? Below are even more ways to immerse yourself in other cultures within Seattle Southside.

A Somali Hub in SeaTac:

In addition to Tawakal Market, there are several markets specializing in Somali goods in a small area near the Tukwila-International Blvd Link light rail station. Check out Mana Market and Tabarak Market for coffee, spices, and more.

A short drive south is the Mall of Africa, located on International Blvd near SEA Airport. Though there's no grocery store, the mall is home to dozens of independently owned stalls offering textiles, fragrances, jewelry, African-inspired fashion, and beauty products from across the continent. Established in 2021 by a group of Somali community leaders to create a vibrant cultural hub, it serves as a gathering place celebrating African heritage.

Globally Focused Farmers Markets:

From spring to fall, several seasonal markets, such as the SeaTac Farmers Market, offer places to shop for international food and goods. Keep an eye on our Guide to Farmers Markets in the area for updates.

Latin Snacks in a Fusion Restaurant:

Caribe Latin Cuisine is a family-owned restaurant in Tukwila serving incredible Mexican and Honduran fare. Inside, you can also find a small section with imported chips, snacks, and even apparel.

Get a Sneak Peek

We hit up some of the above markets early in 2026. Watch our Instagram video to get a sneak peek into what you can find at D’licias Mexican Market, Tawakal Market, Boulevard Market, and Seafood City.

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Common Questions About Seattle Southside's International Markets

What are the best international markets near Seattle?

Some of the best international markets near Seattle are located in Seattle Southside, including Lam’s Seafood Asian Market, Seafood City Supermarket, Tawakal Market, and Boulevard Market. These stores offer global groceries, fresh produce, and ready-made cultural dishes.

Where can I find international grocery stores in Seattle Southside?

You can find international grocery stores in SeaTac, Tukwila, and Des Moines. Popular locations include Westfield Southcenter, the SeaTac International Mall, and neighborhood markets along International Boulevard.

What types of international foods can I find near Seattle?

International markets near Seattle offer a wide variety of foods, including Vietnamese pho and bánh mì, Filipino barbecue, East African spices, Mexican snacks, and Indian sweets. Many also sell fresh produce, seafood, and imported pantry staples.

Are there international markets near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)?

Yes, several international markets are located just minutes from SEA Airport in SeaTac and Tukwila, making them easy to visit during a layover or before a flight.

Which international markets near Seattle have ready-to-eat food?

Many markets feature prepared food, including Lam’s Eatery (Vietnamese street food), Grill City at Seafood City (Filipino cuisine), and Tawakal Market’s adjoining Somali café and bakery.

Why is Seattle Southside known for international markets?

Seattle Southside is one of the most diverse regions in the U.S., which is reflected in its wide range of international markets offering authentic ingredients, goods, and cultural experiences.