by Allix T.

A few months ago I was attempting, yet again, to visit Allston's favorite vintage store, What Once Was.* Regrettably, the shop was closed. My fellow home decor aficionados were slightly dismayed but formulating our new plan when we heard: "what's going on? Are they closed? I can call for you."This is how I met Tony, the gentleman who runs Union Market and Convenience. On nice days you can often catch him hanging outside watching the world go by.  On my first visit inside the shop I noticed the usual convenience store, one stop, items: milk, eggs, candies, cereal, oatmeal, basic household needs. The shop also has lots of specialty, gourmet, and import items (foul madamas, pepper pates, tinned meats, snacks, desserts, etc...)At the back of the shop there's a small deli counter where Tony will "make you a grilled chicken dinner, it's delicious," or, "vegetarians, don't worry, falafal, I'll make you falafals." (Word to the wise, the falafal sandwiches are on sale for $1.99 right now.The key find here though is the small display of hookah pipes for sale. Prices range $80-120 and there's also a big selection of tobaccos: rose, banana, mango, cherry, etc...*What Once Was, awesome vintage store, formerly in the space occupied by Privus, then a neighbor to Union Market, and now, alas, no more.