INTERNATIONAL MARKET OPENS MONDAY AUGUST 1 AT RIVERSIDE PARK IN THE MILL DISTRICT, NORTH AMHERST
Big Basket Market | 19 Montague Rd., Amherst, MA 01002 | 413-230-3494
On Monday August 1, the Riswan family of South Amherst, is opening Big Basket Market at Riverside Park, 19 Montague Road in North Amherst. The international food inventory will include bulk spices, rice, noodles, and beans; fine chocolate; prepared Indian, Arabic, Pakistani, and Chinese foods; and frozen items such as naan, roti, samosas, and kabab. Fathima (Mother) Riswan explains “We came to Amherst 17 years ago from Sri Lanka. Our family and friends travel to Hartford in order to find the bulk spices and cooking ingredients we like. We’re excited to introduce locally-available ingredients for all people who enjoy international food.”
Beyond popular international foods, drinks, snacks, fruits, vegetables, and convenience items, the market will also sell bamboo plants and Asian jewelry. Riswan (father) Raufdeen says his market will accept orders on the phone (413-230-3494) and online and deliveries to a five mile radius will be free for purchases of over $100. “Amherst is a popular town with a diverse population that demands fine ingredients. International students add to the demand for spices and innovative food we provide.”
Khaalid, the Riswan’s eldest, graduated from Amherst High School (ARHS) this year and will begin studies in medicine at UMass in Worcester this fall. Daughter Raeesha is currently a sophomore at ARHS, while younger sister Rafha is at Crocker Farm. The whole family has been working together in July, preparing the market for opening day. “The Mill District is a fast-growing foodie destination” says host, Cinda Jones. “Big Basket international market is a welcome and necessary addition that brings more fresh fruits and vegetables and niche food staples to a hungry community.”
The Mill District, North Amherst was created to invigorate community connections in the Internet age providing experiential retail, great eats, and lots of fun for all ages. North Square is becoming a gourmet food corridor with Provisions (wine/beer and fine foods) moving across the square and joining Futura Coffee Roasters and the Carefree Cakery, which are coming soon. The Trolley Barn will feature a new restaurant soon. 7,000sf of retail space remains available for lease. Other existing tenants include Balanced Birch Pilates and Gyrotonics; The Closet; Graze Craze charcuterie boards; The Mill District General Store and Local Art Gallery; The Lift Salon; Cowls Building Supply; and the Riverside Park Shops including Amherst House of Pizza, Shine Laundry, and Big Guy Liquors.
For up-to-date community and event information see https://themilldistrictna.com/events/ and@TheMillDistrictNA on social.