Hungry for Famima!!? New Store Opens Today in the LBC

On storefronts all over town the word Famima!! (and its quirky pair of exclamation points) is showing up, with a vibrant backdrop of neon green and black. So what's Famima!!? Basically they're the Japanese version of 7-11, proffering convenient food and sundries for the urban dweller. Packaged sandwiches nestle alongside Asian-style eats like sushi rolls and noodle bowls, the dessert area is resplendent with tasty cold creme brulees and pastries, and the refrigerated drink case packed with stellar and out of the ordinary choices. The prices are moderate and for the most part comparable to the world of packaged eats in general. Our visit to the Glendale location was timed well after the lunch hour, so we fear we caught them after their prime goods had been picked over, and the sandwich we left with was satisfying. But our favorite thing about Famima is the Japanese candy and treats shelves, which are stocked with those snappy Pocky sticks and all manner of curious imported sweets in their original packaging. (And yes, Hello Kitty is well represented.)

So why Famima? We can't say it better than they do on their "about" page:

While every consumer deserves the best, the savvy American consumer has developed an international awareness that commands attention. We are becoming a culture that discards the mediocre and demands the highest quality. Rather than settle for the norm, America is a country that succeeds in productivity, awareness and innovation. The Famima concept is integration: The best of all worlds.

Today the chain is celebrating the launch of their 12th Los Angeles area branch, which is in Long Beach at Belmont Shore. Stop by and welcome them to your 'hood, or check and see if there's a location near you.

photo by brandon shigeta