Grand Central Market - Downtown Los Angeles

Central Market (South Hill Street Entrance)

With nothing planned for the afternoon, I picked up an issue of Downtown Guide magazine at the information desk and the Hollywood & Highland Center and chose to explore downtown Los Angeles around the Pershing Square metro subway stop. Located a few steps right of the station exit along South Hill Street is the Grand Central Market billed as "Los Angeles' oldest and largest open-air market".

Open since 1917, thousands of locals mix with tourists to patronize the various eateries and grocers offering fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry and fresh fish from California and around the world. As much as I wanted to try some of the cuisine at the market, the Crumbs cupcake from earlier satiated my appetite for now. The bustling market however is a feast of colorful sights and sounds with an emphasis on vendors offering Mexican food and produce.

Peruse the entire market before making a dining choice and then find an open table around the market to soak in the surroundings and people watch. Click here for a list of vendors and map.

The market is the perfect stop before or after visiting Angels Flight (the world's shortest railway) across South Hill Street.  See the next post for a sign of "Hawaii in the Universe" about the eatery offering dishes with a Hawaii flavor.

More info at grandcentralsquare.com. Open seven days a week Mon-Sun 9am-6pm. Metro Stop: Pershing Square. If driving, the market offers one hour free parking with a minimum $10 purchase. Parking South Hill Street with validation at the market's information desk.