In the 13th arrondissement, in the heart of the Asian quarter, a supermarket has been attracting food lovers and curious shoppers for over forty years. Here, shopping carts are filled with spices, frozen dumplings, fragrant teas, and exotic fruits that are hard to find elsewhere. Welcome to Tang Frères, a true Parisian institution that has become the largest Asian supermarket in the capital over the years.
A legendary name in Chinatown
The story begins in the 1970s, when two brothers of Chinese origin who had arrived from Laos founded a small company importing Asian products to Paris. The brand was officially launched in 1976, before opening its first department store on Avenue d’Ivry in 1981, in the 13th arrondissement. Very quickly, this supermarket became a landmark for communities from Southeast Asia, then for all Parisians in search of oriental flavors.
In the aisles of the historic store on Avenue d’Ivry, you’ll find an impressive selection of products from China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand. The shelves range from meat and fish to frozen foods, condiments, drinks, snacks, and fresh vegetables. You’ll find regulars doing their weekly shopping alongside chefs and Asian food enthusiasts looking for specific ingredients.
Over the years, the brand has established itself as a major player in Asian culinary culture in France. The group is now considered one of the largest Asian supermarket chains in Europe, with several stores in the Paris region and even an international presence.
But it is in the 13th arrondissement that the experience remains the most memorable. Between the stacked bags of rice, the stalls of exotic vegetables, the display cases filled with dim sum, and the entire aisles dedicated to noodles, the place resembles a veritable culinary Aladdin’s cave. Some come here to make homemade ramen, others to find Japanese snacks or stock up on spices.
More than just a supermarket, Tang Frères has become a symbol of Asian culture in Paris. It’s a place where you can travel without leaving the capital, simply by stepping through the doors of this giant Asian grocery store.
📍Tang Frères – 48, avenue d’Ivry, 75013
📆 Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Closes at 3 p.m. on Sundays