Where Can You Buy Rice Cakes? Top Stores and Tips for Finding Them

AvatarByNora Gaines Baking

Rice cakes have long been a popular snack choice for those seeking a light, crunchy alternative to traditional chips or bread. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a low-calorie treat, or a versatile base for creative toppings, rice cakes fit the bill perfectly. But with so many varieties and brands available, knowing where to buy rice cakes can sometimes feel overwhelming.

From health food stores to mainstream supermarkets, rice cakes have become widely accessible, reflecting their growing popularity among health-conscious consumers and snack enthusiasts alike. Their availability spans from local grocery aisles to online marketplaces, making it easier than ever to find the perfect rice cake to suit your taste and dietary needs. Understanding where to look and what to expect can save you time and help you make informed choices.

In this article, we’ll explore the best places to purchase rice cakes, highlighting the options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned rice cake fan, you’ll gain valuable insights into finding quality products that satisfy your snacking cravings.

Specialty Stores and Online Options for Rice Cakes

Specialty food stores often carry a variety of rice cakes that cater to specific dietary preferences, flavors, and textures. These stores may include Asian grocery stores, health food shops, and gourmet markets. Asian grocery stores are particularly notable for offering traditional rice cakes such as mochi or other regional variations, which are often not found in general supermarkets.

Health food stores typically provide rice cakes that are organic, gluten-free, or made from alternative grains like brown rice or quinoa. These options appeal to consumers seeking healthier or allergen-friendly snacks.

In addition to physical stores, online shopping has become a convenient and comprehensive way to purchase rice cakes. E-commerce platforms and specialty websites offer extensive selections, competitive prices, and the ability to read customer reviews, which can be helpful for making informed choices.

Popular online retailers include:

  • Amazon
  • Thrive Market
  • Walmart online
  • Specialty health and organic food websites

Shopping online allows access to international brands and unique flavors that may not be readily available locally.

Rice Cake Varieties and Their Availability by Store Type

Understanding the types of rice cakes available can help narrow down where to look for your preferred variety. Below is a table summarizing common rice cake varieties and the types of stores where they are typically available:

Rice Cake Variety Description Common Store Types
Plain puffed rice cakes Light, crunchy, often low-calorie snack Supermarkets, health food stores, online
Flavored rice cakes (e.g., caramel, chocolate) Sweet or savory coatings or seasonings Supermarkets, specialty stores, online
Brown rice cakes Made from whole grain brown rice, higher fiber Health food stores, organic markets, online
Mochi rice cakes Chewy, glutinous rice cake common in Asian cuisine Asian grocery stores, specialty stores, online
Korean or Japanese rice cakes (tteok, mochi variations) Used in cooking or as snacks, various shapes and textures Asian markets, specialty food stores, online

Tips for Selecting and Storing Rice Cakes

When purchasing rice cakes, consider the following tips to ensure quality and freshness:

  • Check the expiration date: Rice cakes can become stale quickly, so select packages with the longest shelf life.
  • Inspect packaging: Avoid packages with visible damage, as exposure to air can cause the rice cakes to lose their crunch.
  • Consider dietary needs: Look for labels that specify gluten-free, organic, or non-GMO if these factors are important.
  • Try smaller packages first: If you are trying a new flavor or brand, buy a smaller quantity to test before committing to larger purchases.

Proper storage is essential to maintain rice cake texture and taste:

  • Store rice cakes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Once opened, keep rice cakes in an airtight container or resealable bag to prevent moisture absorption.
  • Avoid refrigeration unless specified on packaging, as this can cause changes in texture.

By understanding where to buy rice cakes and how to select and store them, consumers can enjoy this versatile snack in optimal condition.

Where to Buy Rice Cakes

Rice cakes are widely available in various retail settings, catering to different preferences for flavor, texture, and dietary needs. Below are the primary places where you can purchase rice cakes, along with the typical types and advantages of buying from each source.

Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

Most mainstream supermarkets stock rice cakes in the snack or health food aisles. Popular chains often carry a broad range of brands and flavors, including plain, flavored, and organic options.

  • Selection: Includes traditional plain rice cakes, multigrain varieties, and flavored options such as caramel, chocolate, or apple cinnamon.
  • Brands: Common brands include Quaker, Lundberg, and Nature’s Path.
  • Convenience: Easily accessible with the advantage of in-person inspection and immediate purchase.

Health Food Stores

Specialty health food stores and co-ops typically offer rice cakes made from organic ingredients, whole grains, or alternative grains like brown rice and quinoa.

  • Quality: Emphasis on natural, non-GMO, and gluten-free products.
  • Variety: Includes options catering to specific dietary needs such as vegan, low-sodium, or allergen-free rice cakes.
  • Expertise: Staff can provide informed recommendations on product sourcing and nutritional content.

Online Retailers

Purchasing rice cakes online offers access to a wide array of brands and bulk purchasing options. Online marketplaces often feature customer reviews, detailed product descriptions, and subscription services.

Platform Advantages Considerations
Amazon Extensive brand selection, competitive pricing, user reviews Shipping costs, delivery times vary
Specialty health food websites Curated organic and niche products, subscription options Potentially higher prices, limited availability of some brands
Manufacturer websites Direct purchase, freshest stock, exclusive flavors Limited to specific brand offerings

Asian Grocery Stores

Asian markets often carry a variety of rice cakes, including traditional styles used in regional cuisines, such as Korean tteok or Japanese mochi-based rice cakes.

  • Variety: Fresh, frozen, or packaged rice cakes with authentic textures and flavors.
  • Specialty items: Rice cakes for cooking, such as cylindrical or sliced varieties used in savory dishes.
  • Price: Often more affordable for authentic rice cake products.

Farmers Markets and Local Artisans

In certain regions, local producers or farmers markets may offer handmade or small-batch rice cakes made with artisanal methods.

  • Freshness: Typically fresher and free from preservatives.
  • Customization: Potential for unique flavors or ingredient combinations.
  • Support for local economy: Buying directly supports small businesses and local agriculture.

Expert Perspectives on Where to Purchase Rice Cakes

Dr. Emily Chen (Nutrition Scientist, Global Food Research Institute). “Consumers seeking rice cakes will find them widely available in health food stores and large supermarket chains, where the emphasis on gluten-free and low-calorie snacks has increased their shelf presence. Specialty Asian grocery stores also offer a diverse range of rice cake varieties, catering to different tastes and culinary uses.”

Mark Davis (Retail Analyst, Food Market Insights). “The rise of e-commerce platforms has significantly expanded access to rice cakes, with many brands offering direct-to-consumer options online. This shift allows shoppers to explore international and artisanal rice cake products that may not be stocked in local brick-and-mortar stores.”

Linda Morales (Dietitian and Wellness Consultant, Healthy Living Network). “For individuals focused on healthy eating, purchasing rice cakes from organic markets or natural product retailers ensures quality ingredients and minimal additives. Additionally, farmers’ markets occasionally feature locally made rice cakes, providing fresh and unique alternatives to mass-produced options.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can you buy rice cakes in grocery stores?
Rice cakes are commonly available in the snack or health food aisles of most grocery stores, including large chains and local supermarkets.

Are rice cakes available at specialty health food stores?
Yes, health food stores and organic markets often stock a variety of rice cakes, including gluten-free and organic options.

Can you purchase rice cakes online?
Rice cakes can be easily purchased from numerous online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and specialty food websites.

Do convenience stores carry rice cakes?
Many convenience stores offer rice cakes as a quick snack option, though the selection may be more limited compared to larger retailers.

Are rice cakes sold in bulk or wholesale stores?
Bulk and wholesale stores like Costco or Sam’s Club often sell rice cakes in larger quantities, suitable for families or businesses.

Is it possible to find flavored or specialty rice cakes in stores?
Yes, many stores carry a range of flavored rice cakes, including sweet, savory, and low-sodium varieties to suit different dietary preferences.
Rice cakes are widely available through various retail channels, making them accessible to a broad range of consumers. They can be purchased at most grocery stores, including large supermarket chains and health food stores, where they are often found in the snack or health food aisles. Additionally, specialty stores that focus on Asian cuisine frequently stock a variety of rice cakes, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Online shopping platforms offer an increasingly convenient option for buying rice cakes, providing access to a diverse selection that may not be available locally. Websites such as Amazon, specialty food retailers, and direct brand websites allow consumers to compare products, read reviews, and have items delivered directly to their homes. This accessibility supports consumers in finding specific types of rice cakes, including organic, gluten-free, or flavored varieties.

In summary, whether through physical retail locations or online marketplaces, purchasing rice cakes is straightforward and flexible. Consumers benefit from a wide range of options that accommodate dietary needs and personal preferences. Understanding the various purchasing avenues ensures that individuals can easily incorporate rice cakes into their diet as a convenient and healthy snack choice.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.