Mega Mart, a Korean supermarket chain, has opened its largest California location on 1775 E. Bayshore Road in East Palo Alto, taking up the space of a Target that closed around a year ago.

The new location will provide authentic Korean food and groceries, a K-Beauty Zone for skincare and seldom found Korean beauty products, according to a flyer handed out prior to the opening.

It will also house Basquia Bakery, which is primarily focused on gluten-free pastries, and Pogu Picnic, a Korean-style bento box restaurant crafted by Michelin-star Chef Tony Yoo.

For many East Palo Alto residents, the market will be more than a place to shop. Brenda Edwards, a community member, said she sees the store as an opportunity to branch out.
“I don’t know much about Korean food, but I want to try,” Edwards said. “I think this is a good place to find new  friends and new jobs for people.”