Take A Trip Around The World At This 30,000-Square-Foot Historic Public Market In Southern California
By Natasha Kayes|Published November 29, 2022
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
What brings people together more than good food? People the world over love to eat and take pride in their local specialties, and most of us enjoy trying new foods. However, traveling the world in search of new and exciting cuisines is not in everyone’s budget. Thankfully, Los Angeles has developed into what it is due to the immigrant communities that call it home, and they have brought their delicious recipes with them. Out of this melting pot comes a wonderful international market in Southern California that lets you tour the world’s culinary scene.
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Grand Central Market is a 30,000-square-foot landmark in the city and brings together the many cultures that have shaped it.
The market opened its doors to the public in 1917, selling fresh meat, seafood, and product, as well as a few vendors serving up freshly prepared dishes.
You can sample Filipino food at Sari Sari. or head to one of the market's legacy vendors, China Cafe, which has been here serving up noodles, fried rice, and other Chinese-American faves for over 50 years.
You will find Salvadorean pupusas at Sarita’s, German sausages at Berlin Currywurst, and Oyster Gourmet, serving local seafood and an international wine selection. And you are just getting started!
How about authentic Michoacan Carnitas, Lobster Rolls, or homestyle Korean food? Or maybe close your eyes and imagine you are in Italy with Neopolitan-style pizza from Olio and fresh-made pasta from Knead.
Enjoy amazing Thai dishes like Pineapple Fried Rice and Pad See Ew at Sticky Rice, and pair your choice with a delicious Asian tea from neighboring Moon Rabbit. Japanese stalls sell flavorful vegan Ramen and traditional bento boxes.
As has been throughout Grand Central Market’s history, customers can find a variety of fresh produce, as well as dried and packaged international products.
One particular stall is a veritable world tour in itself. The first full-service cheesemonger in downtown Los Angeles brings together cheeses of all types, flavors, and ages from all over the world. Browse the profile descriptions and try something you’ve never had before, maybe never even heard of.
Of course, international also includes American indulgences like Fat and Flour's homemade pies and cookies, a gourmet coffee bar, Golden Road Brewing (local beers on tap), and good old-fashioned burgers. There is even a next-level peanut butter and jelly spot.
A weekly world-inspired bazaar pops up in the market’s basement, featuring a variety of retail and handicraft vendors selling hand-made rugs, jewelry, embroidered clothing, candles, crystals, woodwork, and vintage items.
Have you ever been to Grand Central Market? Tell us about your favorite vendors at this international market in the comments. Stay updated on news and events at the market on Facebook.
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