To no surprise of anybody who has ever visited and eaten one of its many delicious offerings, Southeast Asian Market in Philadelphia has emerged as one of the best food markets in the nation, writes Alexandra Domrongchai for Food & Wine.

The market at Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park in Packer Park in South Philadephia had its start around four decades ago when Lao and Cambodian refugees who were fleeing war in their homelands decided to settle in Philadelphia to start anew.

They were welcomed by a strong and supportive diaspora as well as a larger Southeast Asian community that wanted to share their home foods with one another.

What started from one Laotin couple selling papaya salad out of their van, grew over the years into a collection of Southeast Asian families who came together to create an official market.

Today, the FDR Southeast Asian Market provides vendor support and resources for local families, including training on how to obtain proper business licenses.

And while there are now many places in Philadelphia that offer delicious food, Southeast Asian Market brings a truly unique taste to the city.

Read more about the Southeast Asian Market in Food & Wine.

________