One thing Southern California has always been known for is our citrus groves. Packing houses used to be located all over this part of the state, but many have closed or been torn down for urban development over the years (one long-vacant citrus factory near me actually burned down recently!) On a positive note, some of these buildings have been preserved and repurposed into bustling community businesses such as this incredible food hall in Anaheim, CA.
The Anaheim Packing House was built for Sunkist in 1919, back when Orange County’s claim to fame was well, oranges.
Centrally located in downtown Anaheim and near the railroad, it was a busy commercial hub where local farmers brought their produce to be washed, sorted, packed, and shipped nationwide. The last crate of citrus was packed here in 1955.
This is the only packing house left in the city and sat vacant for many years. After two years of renovations, this beautiful building re-opened in 2014 as the Anaheim Packing House food hall, part of a collection of four historic landmarks and a park known as the Anaheim Packing District.
Shortly after re-opening, the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Don't let the front of the building fool you. When you pull into the parking lot, you'll see just how massive this place really is.
Nowadays, what you will find inside is a gorgeous, airy space with an exciting collection of delicious eateries spread over two huge floors. There are open communal dining areas, quiet cozy nooks, and lovely outdoor patio seating. There is also live weekly music on the landing in the center between the stairs.
Nearly every review you’ll read mentions the wide variety of ethnic foods available to try, like the very popular “Anti-Gravity Noodles” from 206 BCE. You’ll also find steak, fresh seafood, sandwiches, cocktail bars, and more.
Make sure you do a bit of wandering because there is plenty to discover aside from a great meal - coffee, bread and pastries, juices and smoothies, snacks, and creative desserts are scattered throughout.
Aside from the structure itself, there are lots of vintage features and lovely nods to the packing house's fruitful (see what I did there?) past. You could definitely come back over and over, discovering something new each time you visit.
I love how this building brings new (delicious!) life to an old building full of character and history. Have you visited this massive food hall in Anaheim, CA? Share your favorite spots with us in the comments. Find out more on the Anaheim Packing District website and Facebook page. This would be an awesome stop on a SoCal road trip or a family vacay in Anaheim. Speaking of which, check out this incredible family rental in the center of all this city has to offer!
If you're always on the hunt for your next favorite foodie destination, make sure you check out more of our favorite spots to eat and drink in Southern California.
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