New Filipino Market Opens in Bangor, Satisfies Asian Grocery Demand

Residents of Bangor, Maine, now have access to a much-anticipated source of Filipino and Asian groceries. The Buena Vista Filipino Market opened its doors on January 31, 2025, at 1012 Stillwater Avenue, in a shopping center located across from Target. This new venture responds to the growing demand for Asian food products, with many locals previously traveling to Portland for their culinary needs.

The decision to establish a market in Bangor stemmed from community requests, as noted by George Baquiran, the store manager. He stated, “A lot of people go to Portland and they advised [the owner], why not put a store in Bangor?” The store has quickly become a beacon for the local Filipino community and other Asian immigrants who often struggled to find imported goods in the area.

Upon its opening, the market has seen a surge in customers, particularly those from the Philippines and neighboring countries. Many residents have expressed their excitement about the availability of authentic products that were previously difficult to find. The Bangor location follows the recent launch of Glo’s Carinderia in Belfast in December, highlighting a growing interest in Asian cuisine in the region.

Extensive Product Range to Satisfy Local Tastes

Buena Vista Filipino Market offers a diverse array of products, including packaged items such as noodles, spices, sauces, and canned fish. Fresh foods like meat, vegetables, and a variety of breads—most notably pandesal, a popular Filipino roll—are also available. One standout item is Halo-Halo, a traditional Filipino dessert made with shaved ice, milk, ube ice cream, and an assortment of sweet ingredients. Baquiran noted, “Halo-halo is a popular Filipino dessert of shaved ice, evaporated or coconut milk, a mix of sweet ingredients like fruits and jellies, and is topped with ube (purple yam) ice cream.”

In addition to groceries, the market features a selection of skin care products, fruit juices, and ready-to-eat dishes, including chicken from Jollibee. Notably, Jollibee does not have any locations in New England, making this partnership particularly appealing to the local Filipino community.

A Personal Connection to Culture

Baquiran, who immigrated to the United States 40 years ago, has transitioned from a long career in the garment industry to this new venture in retirement. “I became more into pasta,” he joked, reflecting on his dietary adaptations. Nonetheless, he emphasized his commitment to maintaining a connection with his cultural roots. “But I still cannot forget my culture,” he said.

The opening of Buena Vista Filipino Market not only fills a significant gap in the local market but also enriches the community by providing access to authentic Filipino and Asian products. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many customers expressing gratitude for a convenient and culturally relevant shopping option. As this market continues to thrive, it stands as a testament to the growing diversity and culinary interests in Bangor and beyond.