3 Delicious Places to Eat in the Grand Central Market that You Have Never Tried

• Instagram
• Pinterest

This post is all about Grand Central Market.

Ah, if LA is good at anything, they are amazing at their markets! And Grand Central Market might just take the cake. Located in Downtown LA, this place took my breath away. East coasters, if you are missing the neon lights of NYC, here’s where you’ll get your fix. Crammed into the first floor of this ancient building (the market has been there since 1917!) are dozens of food and craft stands. The smells of spices and sugary goodness will have you completely helpless on what to try first. Well, that’s why I am here to help. 

What to Expect at the Grand Central Market

Stepping out of the elevator of the parking garage right into the thick of it, it is easy to get overwhelmed. There’s a line for every stand and signs everywhere with every type of food you can imagine. I’d suggest taking a few deep breaths, then take a lap or two to look at all of your options. You do not want to regret missing an opportunity to try something you find after you’ve already stuffed yourself. 

Game Plan

Next, if you are in a group and all want to order from the same place, send someone off to find a table and hold the fort down. Especially on the weekends, this place is a madhouse if you’re trying to find somewhere to sit. I was not a fan of the atmosphere; once I had bought my food, I wanted out of the crowds. Right across the street, there are people usually having picnics on the greenery which is right up my alley. If that’s your thing too, then bring a blanket and do a victory dance for making it out alive.

Okay, I’m being a little dramatic. It’s not that bad; it’s just chaotic when you first arrive. On my first lap or two around, I slowly started taking in the details of the cooks, the food, the details hidden in the menus and decoration. It really is a melting pot of flavors and flare when it comes to the food and the people.

But anyways, you’re here for the food! Let’s get into it:

Sarita’s Pupuseria 

I’ve never had Salvadorian food let alone ever had the option available. This is probably the longest line you will stand in, but I am telling you, it is so worth it. The only regret I have of this place was that I didn’t order more food because it was that good. I had a spinach pupusa which was heaven on earth no exaggeration. A plus to this place is while you wait, you can grab a picture of you sitting on the same stools of a very popular couple from La La Land!

Sticky Rice

If Thai is your jam, you have to try this place! It was so flavorful and filling and the perfect introduction to amazing Thai food. I got the Kaeng Kiew Wan which is a vegetable green curry served with sticky rice. To. Die. For.

Sari Sari

Filipino is next on the list. Although many will stand in line for the rice bowls, I only had my sights set on one thing. Their Buko Pie. I forbid anyone reading this to leave the Grand Central Market without trying a slice. It’s the perfect dessert to the end of your foodie experience.

Grand Central Market Parking

Parking: 308 South Hill Street ($3 for first 90 min, $2 for each additional 15min, $25 All day)

Visit their website here for a layout of the vendors as well as a full list of all your options! They also have a map and more detailed instructions on parking. Definitely don’t forget to read up on the history of this place as it is an incredible feat to still be standing all these years later. 

Grand Central Market Bazaar

If you do plan on going on a weekend, there is a secret event that goes on in the basement of the building that you will not want to miss! Friday-Sunday is the Grand Central Market Bazaar where dozens of vendors set up shop with beautiful, trendy, and one-of-a-kind trinkets. You can find everything from jewelry to clothing, crystals to purses. There are so many fun things to browse, and the vendors are all so nice and talkative!

Extras!

For an extra bonus to your outing, if you exit to the little patch of greenery across the street, you’ll see the Angel’s Flight Railway! You might recognize this from the movie La La Land when Ryan Gosling’s and Emma Stone’s characters ride it during their date montage! To ride it, you’ll need just $2– $1 each way. You cannot miss this thing in all its bright orangeness.

This post is about Grand Central Market.