Counter Culture

A global shopping experience awaits your discovery at two landmark centers.

ASIAN GARDEN MALL
In the heart of Westminster’s Little Saigon stands a looming green pagoda that beckons shoppers to dozens of stores that are collectively called the Asian Garden Mall. For nearly a quarter of a century now, the nation’s largest Vietnamese community has been anchored by this two-story shopping extravaganza, drawing tourists from around the globe and even those closer to home. A mere mention conjures childhood memories for many, who recall weekend family excursions to its food court and shops. There’s everything from golden Buddhas and fancy dresses to exquisite jade and tropical flowers, so you can go on an exotic journey without leaving the California Riviera. 9200 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, asiangardenmall.com

Buddhist Temple
Where else in O.C. can you find a place of worship within a shopping mall? In a second-floor alcove, three giant wooden statues stand. The elaborately carved figurines with flowing robes beckon to shoppers who take time to kneel and say a prayer or two, then light incense. If you’re in need of an immediate answer, shake a cylinder of numbered chi sticks and retrieve a corresponding sheet of paper. A wizened sage sitting at a desk near the statues will interpret your fortune.

Phoc Loc Tho Chinese Herbs
If you’ve ever wondered how Asian women seem to defy age, those in the know say it’s from eating birds’ nests. Sparrows’ nests from the mountains of Tibet are shipped to this herbalist store, where they’re sold as an extreme antioxidant. A small package will set you back $449. The store is also a tea lover’s paradise, with up to 100 rare blends. Have a cold, arthritis or an ache? The herbalist has thousands of recipes for every type of malady. Or, ask to see the acupuncturist who has an office in the back. 714.903.2550

DIAMOND JAMBOREE CENTER
Orange County’s second-largest Asian population lives in Irvine, which has its own eclectic hot spot dubbed the Diamond Jamboree Center. The mall, which is best known for its to-die-for dining, serves as the anchor destination for a planned community that boasts a Buddhist temple and condominiums. Many restaurants made their U.S. debut here and attract a fervent following that has helped the spot become a premier attraction in the three short years it has been open. And then there’s HMart Supermarket, with its abundant collection of Asian food offerings. Locals and visitors alike flock here to get a taste of authentic cultural cuisine. Oh sure, the center also features shops and spas, but it’s the grub that’ll get you—guaranteed. 2700-2750 Alton Parkway, Irvine, 626.571.0084, diamond-jamboree.com

Kula Revolving Sushi Bar
The name says it all. The restaurant serves meals via a conveyor belt that winds its way around the tables. And, as with all great eateries, lunch and dinner both bring a line out the door and often along the side of the building. Each day, chefs prepare about a dozen varieties of fish, including favorites like tuna yaki, toro bluefin and sea urchin. Have a seat and wait until your favorite snakes past you, then grab it off the line. Talk about fun with food! Need more incentive? “I eat here a couple times a week—it’s great food, a bunch of different varieties and $2 a plate,” says C.J. Daley, 29, of Orange. Beer and wine is served. And here’s good news for late-night diners: The restaurant is open until 11pm Monday through Thursday, and until midnight Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, the joint closes at 10:30pm. 949.553.0747, kura-corpo.co.jp/us

HMart Asian Supermarket
This huge grocery store is like none other, with items and services rarely seen this side of the Pacific. Scoop up anchovies, shrimp and octopus like you would a helping of pistachios or trail mix in other stores. Or, select from a plethora of fresh fish, including croaker and pike. Over in the meat section, self-serve marinated cuts like Kobe beef are offered. And be sure to check out the exotic fruits and deli area. 949.833.0111, hmart.com

85ºc Bakery Café
Nicknamed the “Starbucks of Taiwan,” the first shop in its homeland serves 2,000 guests per day. Here, customers load their trays in a cafeteria-like setting with a mind-boggling array of some of the most elaborate baked goods imaginable. “This place is addicting,” says Thomas Hsieh, 19, of Irvine. 949.553.8585, 85cbakerycafe.com