I couldn’t resist the temptation.
After visiting Los Angeles Original Farmers Market in late December, I decided to stop by (again) last week.
I mean, I try to avoid places like this. Not because I do not like them. On the contrary, I like them way too much.
I twist and turn around like a little child while trying to decide where to eat. My husband and I pick 2 or 3 places and share a dish from each. In that way, we can maximize the sampling. When we are done, I feel like a need a forklift to take me back to the car.
Jokes aside, the Original Farmers Market is one of the coolest places to visit in Southern California.
I am sharing my recommendations in case you decide to visit (and you should visit, for sure).
About the Original Farmers Market
The Los Angeles Original Farmers Market has been on operation since 1934.
Located on 3rd Street and Fairfax Avenue, it is home of more than 100+ merchants selling food, coffee, baked goods, ice cream, gourmet groceries, meat, poultry, cheese, nuts, and much more.
With time, the area surrounding the market has become a huge dining, shopping, and entertainment complex. In the vicinity, you will find a movie theater, bookstore, supermarkets, big brand stores, and eateries by the dozen.
You can spend days exploring the area!
Where to Eat
Here are some great places to eat inside the Farmers Market:
Michelina - This place has some of the most flavorful baguettes (they have been named Best Baguette in Los Angeles) and pastries in the city. Their sandwiches are delicious too.
Pampas Grill - This churrascaria (Brazilin-style) is one of the most popular spots on the market (the line does not lie). If you can get in, try the picanha and linguica.
Fritzi Coop - This is the place to go for huge fried chicken sandwiches. You can customize the heat level.
Bob’s Coffee & Donuts - I am a plain sugar or glazed donut girl but people say the apple fritters and crumb donuts here are out of this world.
Monsieur Marcel Bistro - This is a nice spot to eat French dishes (quiche, coq au vin), oysters and cheese and drink wine (or your favorite champagne). Even if you do not eat here, make sure to visit their gourmet market to be bedazzled by the European goods.
The French Crepe Company - As the name implies, they do some mean sweet and savory crepes. My mouth waters when I think about this place. They serve hot and cold sandwiches too.
Local Ice - Head to this establishment to try hand-made ice cream, Italian ice, shakes, and sundaes. They come up with the most unique flavors (you are not going to find them anywhere else).
Papa Jake’s Sub Shop - They serve classics such as cheesesteak and chicken parmigiana. Their signature relish (a mix of peppers and onions) takes the sandwiches’ flavor profile to another level.
Bennett’s Ice Cream - Two words for you: Bennett’s Bar. This is one of my favorite things to get in the market. It is a vanilla ice cream bar covered in chocolate and nuts. If you are not into that, give their award-winning ice creams a try.
Recommendations
If you want to avoid crowds, try to visit the market during the week and avoid lunchtime.
You get 90 minutes of free parking with validation.
However, park outside the market if possible. Sometimes, the parking lot gets crazy hectic.
If you have time, walk to The Grove (shopping and entertainment complex) after eating at the market.
Nearby Attractions
You can combine your visit to the Originals Farmers Market with other nearby attractions:
Fairfax District
Melrose District
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Petersen Automotive Museum
La Brea Tar Pits
Hollywood (3 miles away)
Beverly Hills (less than 3 miles away)
Hope this article has shed some light on this awesome place to visit in Los Angeles. Remember to add the Original Farmers Market to your itinerary when planning a trip to California.
Comments (3)Subscribe to CommentsComment