Los Angeles' Iconic Food Hall Is A Downtown Staple Of Eclectic, Award-Winning Eats And An Artsy Marketplace

From the moment the sun rises over the Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Grand Central Market throws open its doors and invites you into a world of scent, sizzle, and city soul. Breakfast burritos from Villa Moreliana? Yes. A strong coffee from Go Get Em Tiger to revive your jetlagged bones? Also yes. Whether you're starting your day with a gourmet egg sandwich or winding it down with a spicy Thai dinner from Sticky Rice, this market has a meal and a mood for every hour.

But Grand Central Market is more than just a food stop — it's a living, breathing piece of Los Angeles history. Operating since 1917, LA's largest and oldest public market has survived generations of change and remains a vital gathering point for the city's wildly diverse communities. Today, you'll find award-winning vendors shoulder to shoulder with local favorites, offering everything from Salvadoran pupusas at Sarita's to Shiku's authentic Korean cuisine that rivals Koreatown Plaza's offerings. As the market proudly proclaims, "To this day, there's always room at our table, and the whole city here for the tasting." Grand Market's not just where you eat, it's where you come to immerse yourself in the rich vibrancy of the city.

Sure, Grand Central Market is a food lover's dream, but did you know it also throws a great party? From live music to wine tastings to cultural showcases, there's always something stirring besides a pot of ramen. Many events are free, some are ticketed, but every event certainly dishes out something uniquely Angeleno.

Just when you think you've seen it all, along comes The Bazaar. Happening every 3rd and 4th Friday and Saturday, starting at 11 a.m., it's the cool cousin of your neighborhood craft fair. Serving up thrifted finds, zines, ceramics, art prints, and trinkets that somehow all pair perfectly with a pastrami sandwich. It sets up shop right next to the iconic Million Dollar Theater, so you can pop between tacos and treasures without breaking a sweat.

The blocks around Grand Central Market are a goldmine of good eats, ready to charm any curious palate. The area is full of foodie neighborhoods offering regional staples, culture, and community. When you need to go on a digestion walk after you sample the tastings, just a short public transit ride away, you'll find one of California's best flea markets. Scope out the vintage offerings and unique antiques as you deliciously reminisce about one of the best meals you just had. Touching down at Los Angeles International Airport? Your best bet is the FlyAway Bus or a rideshare into downtown. Grand Central Market sits just steps from the Pershing Square Metro station. You'll know you're close when the air smells like garlic fries and the neon signs start glowing.