I’ve been learning about some of the hidden gems in Burlington. The awesome Indian restaurant that hides itself in the back of a parking lot, the Papagino’s that actually has really good pizza, Szechuan Garden (not really in Burlington, but close) and HMart.

Michael (the GM of Clover Burlington and a Burlington native) told me about HMart. It’s a massive Asian grocery store, and it’s the place to go if you want kimchee, every different kind of sauce or vinegar, crazy fruits and meats and fish, sprouted brown rice. If you spend $50 or more you get to spin a wheel and get a free gift (I got roasted chestnuts).

I was working at Clover Burlington other day, and told Mike he should go on a field trip to HMart and bring back a new idea for a soda. I kind of felt like I was back on the set of Top Chef, and this was our own little quickfire challenge. Mike came back laden with persimmons, Korean pears (in season right now), and pomegranates. One of these items was successful as a soda. Come by and see.