Decode the Chinese grocery aisle

Short lists, label tips, and “buy this / skip that” for your first trips to 99 Ranch and local Chinese markets.

No fake prices. Brands and stock vary by store. Updated dates on every guide. Checklists work offline once loaded · No account.

Pick a job for this trip

A short, checkable list so you don’t leave with random bottles.

Light vs dark (生抽 / 老抽): which bottle to buy first.

30-second fork: first visit, restock, or vegetarian cart.

Rule: when unsure, buy the small bottle.

How to walk a Chinese market without getting stuck at the sauce wall.

Decoders for soy, vinegar, cooking wine, oyster sauce, and more.

Phone-friendly lists grouped by aisle order. Printable.