This Oklahoma Asian Market Is a Grocery Store, Food Court, and Culture Shock All in One

Ever wonder where Oklahoma City locals go when they want to eat, shop, and travel to Asia without leaving the state? Super Cao Nguyen is that place, and it’s sparking debates all over town.

Some say it’s the most authentic cultural experience you can get in the heartland, while others argue it’s overwhelming and chaotic for first-timers. Is it a treasure trove of culinary adventure or just too much sensory overload for the average shopper?

Whether you’re a foodie hunting for rare ingredients, a curious traveler seeking new flavors, or someone who thinks grocery shopping should stay simple and familiar, this spot will challenge everything you thought you knew about markets.

It’s messy, it’s bustling, it’s packed with things you’ve never seen before, and yes, it might make you a little uncomfortable at first. But that’s exactly why people can’t stop talking about it.

So what’s your take? Is Super Cao Nguyen Oklahoma City’s best-kept secret or its most misunderstood landmark?

Walking Into a World That Feels Oceans Away

Stepping through the doors at Super Cao Nguyen feels like boarding a plane without the hassle of airport security. One moment you’re in Oklahoma City, and the next you’re surrounded by sights, sounds, and smells that transport you straight to the bustling markets of Southeast Asia.

The air hums with a mix of languages, the faint scent of incense drifts through the aisles, and everywhere you look there’s something unfamiliar and intriguing.

Rows of brightly colored packages line the shelves, each one covered in characters and symbols that tell stories you might not understand but can’t help but admire. Fresh produce you’ve never seen before sits in neat piles, while live fish swim lazily in large tanks near the back.

It’s sensory overload in the best possible way, and even if you don’t know what half the items are, the energy of the place pulls you in.

First-timers often stand frozen near the entrance, eyes wide, trying to take it all in. Regulars breeze past with shopping carts already half full, moving with the confidence of people who know exactly where to find their favorite fish sauce or noodle brand.

The contrast is striking, and it’s a reminder that this market serves as both a lifeline for the local Asian community and a gateway for curious newcomers. Whether you’re here to cook an authentic meal or just to explore, the experience starts the second you walk in, and it doesn’t let up until you leave.

Aisles That Go On Forever and Hold Everything

Super Cao Nguyen isn’t just big, it’s sprawling. With aisle after aisle packed floor to ceiling with products, you could spend hours here and still not see everything.

Two entire aisles are dedicated solely to ramen noodles, and we’re not talking about the basic stuff you find at regular grocery stores. These are imported varieties from Japan, Korea, Thailand, and beyond, each offering flavors you didn’t know existed.

Spicy seafood, creamy tonkotsu, tangy tom yum, even matcha and milk tea flavored options line the shelves.

Beyond the noodles, there are sections for sauces, spices, dried goods, canned items, frozen dumplings, rice in every imaginable variety, and snacks that could fill a small convenience store on their own.

You’ll find Japanese Kit Kats in green tea and matcha flavors, crispy seaweed snacks, shrimp chips, Pocky sticks, and Yan Yan crackers with chocolate dip that bring back childhood memories for many shoppers.

Kitchen equipment and utensils occupy the back corner, offering everything from woks and steamers to rice cookers and specialty knives. There’s even a small pharmacy tucked inside, which is a recent addition that locals appreciate.

The variety is staggering, and whether you’re stocking up on essentials or hunting for something specific, chances are you’ll find it here. Just be prepared to wander, because half the fun is discovering items you didn’t even know you needed.

Fresh Produce That Challenges Your Grocery Game

Forget the predictable produce section at your regular supermarket. Super Cao Nguyen takes fruits and vegetables to a whole new level, offering items that most Oklahomans have never encountered.

Dragon fruit, durian, lychee, rambutan, bitter melon, bok choy, daikon radish, Thai basil, and fresh lemongrass are just the beginning. The selection rotates based on what’s in season and what shipments arrive, so each visit can feel like a new adventure.

Durian, the infamous spiky fruit known for its pungent smell and creamy texture, has a dedicated fan base here. Some people swear by its rich, custard-like flavor, while others can’t get past the odor.

Either way, it’s always available, and spotting it in the produce section is a rite of passage for first-time visitors. The locally grown vegetables are fresh and affordable, making this a go-to spot for home cooks who want to experiment with authentic Asian recipes.

Staff members are usually happy to help if you’re unsure what something is or how to prepare it, though the language barrier can sometimes make communication tricky. Still, a little curiosity and willingness to try new things goes a long way.

Many shoppers come here specifically for the produce, knowing they won’t find this variety anywhere else in Oklahoma. It’s a chance to expand your culinary horizons and bring flavors into your kitchen that you’d otherwise only taste at a restaurant.

Live Seafood Tanks That Bring the Ocean Inland

One of the most talked-about features at Super Cao Nguyen is the live seafood section, where tanks filled with fish, lobster, crab, and other aquatic creatures line the back wall. For many shoppers, this is the highlight of the trip.

Watching live fish swim around before being selected for dinner is a stark contrast to the pre-packaged fillets found at conventional grocery stores, and it speaks to the market’s commitment to freshness.

The seafood selection changes regularly, and you’ll often see species that aren’t common in typical American markets. Tilapia, catfish, and various shellfish are staples, and the staff can clean and prepare your selection on the spot if you ask.

This hands-on approach appeals to home cooks who want the freshest ingredients possible and are willing to do a bit of extra prep work in exchange for quality.

However, not everyone is comfortable with the sight of live animals being sold for food, and some reviews mention the occasional dead or struggling fish in the tanks. It’s a reality of this type of market, and while the staff works to maintain the tanks, the sheer volume of inventory can make it challenging.

Still, for those who grew up with this style of shopping or who appreciate the cultural authenticity, it’s a non-issue. The seafood section is a reminder that food doesn’t always come neatly wrapped in plastic, and for many, that’s exactly the point.

A Meat Market That Doesn’t Hold Back

Super Cao Nguyen’s meat department is not for the faint of heart. Whole animals, unusual cuts, and specialty items that you won’t find at your neighborhood grocery store are displayed with a directness that can be jarring for some shoppers.

Pork belly, oxtail, chicken feet, tripe, tongue, and even more adventurous options are available, catering to customers who know exactly what they want and how to cook it.

The variety is impressive, and the prices are often better than what you’d pay elsewhere. Many Asian cuisines rely on using every part of the animal, and this market makes it easy to find those ingredients.

Whether you’re making pho from scratch and need beef bones, preparing a traditional Filipino dish, or experimenting with a new recipe, the meat section has you covered.

The presentation can be a bit of a culture shock for those used to sanitized, pre-packaged meat cases. Here, the focus is on freshness and authenticity rather than making everything look pretty.

Some shoppers appreciate the no-nonsense approach, while others find it off-putting. Either way, it’s a reflection of the market’s roots and the community it serves.

For anyone serious about cooking Asian cuisine at home, this section is a goldmine. Just come with an open mind and maybe a list, because the options can be overwhelming if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.

Food Court Vibes and Bakery Treats Up Front

Right when you walk in, a small bakery greets you with the warm, inviting smell of fresh pastries. Steamed buns, sweet rolls, and other baked goods are displayed in glass cases, and they’re the perfect grab-and-go snack if you’re hungry while shopping.

The pastries are soft, lightly sweet, and made fresh daily, and regulars often stop by just to pick up a few before heading into the main store.

Inside the building, there are also a few dine-in restaurants that serve everything from pho and banh mi to sushi and other Asian street food favorites. On weekends, food kiosks set up outside the entrance, offering even more options like Vietnamese sandwiches on crispy baguettes and other savory treats.

It’s a full sensory experience, and the combination of shopping and eating makes Super Cao Nguyen more than just a grocery run.

The food court atmosphere adds to the market’s appeal, turning a simple errand into a cultural outing. Families come here to stock up on groceries and then sit down for a meal together, making it a social hub for the local Asian community.

Even if you’re not planning to eat, the smells alone are enough to tempt you. The bakery and food vendors are a big part of what makes this place special, and they’re a reminder that food is about more than just sustenance.

It’s about connection, tradition, and sharing something delicious with the people around you.

Navigating the Chaos and Finding Your Rhythm

Super Cao Nguyen can feel chaotic, especially on weekends when the aisles are packed with shoppers and the parking lot is nearly full. Carts weave around each other, families navigate with kids in tow, and the sheer volume of people can make the experience feel a bit overwhelming.

But that’s also part of the charm. This isn’t a sterile, quiet supermarket where you can hear a pin drop.

It’s alive, bustling, and full of energy.

For first-timers, the best advice is to take your time and not stress about having a plan. Wander the aisles, pick up things that catch your eye, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

The staff is generally helpful, though language barriers can sometimes make communication tricky. Many shoppers recommend going on weekday evenings or Tuesday nights after shipments arrive, when the store is freshly stocked but not as crowded.

Regulars have their routines down to a science. They know which aisles to hit first, where to find their favorite brands, and how to navigate the checkout lines efficiently.

Watching them move through the store with purpose is almost like watching a dance. But even if you’re new and fumbling your way through, there’s a sense of camaraderie among shoppers.

Everyone’s here for the same reason, to find ingredients and products that connect them to their culture or help them explore something new. The chaos is part of the experience, and once you embrace it, you’ll find your rhythm too.

A Cultural Landmark in the Heart of Oklahoma

Super Cao Nguyen has been a fixture in Oklahoma City for years, serving as a cultural landmark and gathering place for the local Asian community. For immigrants and their families, this market is more than just a place to buy groceries.

It’s a connection to home, a reminder of flavors and traditions that span generations. Walking through the aisles, you’ll see grandmothers carefully selecting vegetables, parents teaching their kids the names of different foods, and friends catching up in languages that reflect the diversity of the community.

But it’s not just for those with cultural ties to Asia. Super Cao Nguyen has become a destination for curious locals, adventurous cooks, and anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons.

It’s a place where cultures intersect, where someone from rural Oklahoma can stand next to a recent immigrant from Vietnam, both reaching for the same jar of chili paste. That kind of exchange, quiet and unspoken, is what makes this market special.

Located at 2668 N Military Ave, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the store is easy to find and offers plenty of parking, which is a relief given how busy it can get. It’s open seven days a week, with slightly extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, making it accessible for most schedules.

Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Super Cao Nguyen offers a glimpse into a world that exists right here in the heartland, proving that you don’t have to travel far to experience something extraordinary.

Address: 2668 N Military Ave, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma