BITES NEARBY: ARAX MARKET
Patch.com
Jan 13 2012
One of the three popular Armenian-Middle Eastern grocery stores on
Mount Auburn Street in Watertown.
Arax is located in the middle of the three ethnic grocers on Mount
Auburn Street in Watertown, between Sevan Bakery and Massis. It has
the best produce section, as well as the most extensive selection
of bulk grains, honeys and teas. Otherwise, it’s more a matter of
personal preference or taste, since all three stores carry a good
variety of prepared Middle Eastern foods, cheeses, olives, flat breads,
and juice drinks.
What to eat: Like all three Middle Eastern grocers in this two-block
stretch of Mount Auburn Street, Arax has an extensive olive bar and
a well-stocked cheese deli with several kinds of feta and other soft
cheeses. Its coolers are filled with yogurts and prepared Middle
Eastern foods, such as humus, baba ganoush and other cold dishes,
which can make a satisfying lunch with fresh pita or sesame ring
bread. For dessert, there are more than a dozen kinds of Armenian
pastries and fresh fruit.
The vibe: Friendly and cosy, with local Armenians, Italians and others
shopping every day.
Cool factor no. 1: You can drop in to pick up some bread, olives and
cheese — or spend time just browsing among the many kinds of honey,
oils, teas spices and bulk foods.
Cool factor no. 2: It’s fine to ask for a sample of a cheese or to
taste an olive or two.