Gina Speed
Where in Los Angeles can you spontaneously find a table for 12 and satisfy everyone’s taste buds? Head to The Grove and take in the fresh air of The Original Farmer’s Market. There are plenty of food places to choose from, that will delight even the most discerning of palates. Meander through grocery and artisan stalls for one of LA’s best shopping experiences. (And of course, true to form, celebrity sightings are always a possibility.)
Why It’s The Original Farmer’s Market
The Grove has a rich history dating back to the Depression era. Two successful dairy farmers had an idea to build a “Village” where local farmers could sell their fresh produce. The Original Farmer’s Market started as a bunch of farmers and merchants, selling goods from the back of trucks. Two months later, permanent stalls began to be built and the popularity of the market grew. It was only a matter of time before celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe and The Beatles started making appearances. So Hollywood! Now the market is situated next to one of LA’s biggest shopping centers. Hop on the trolley and head over!
Fall Festival
That first year, those happy dairy farmer founders staged a Fall Festival to celebrate the success of the market. The Fall Festival is still a regular yearly occurrence at The Original Market, also happening this weekend! October 14 – 15 (11am – 7pm), the market will be filled with live music, crafts, and a petting zoo. Grab your friends and family and check out the list of events before you go. They’ve added a Beer Garden this year and a pumpkin patch, too. We just did a visit to Oktoberfest in Utah, now time to check out how LA celebrates the season. If you’re planning to stay in LA, we suggest finding an Airbnb near The Grove. You can use this link to save $40 off your next Airbnb trip! The Grove is a nice area and is in the heart of the best part of LA.
Food, Glorious Food
We mentioned earlier feeding a party of 12. All throughout The Original Farmer’s Market, there are food stalls that are similar to food trucks. These are not your standard fast-food eateries – the quality of food is amazing and there is such a variety! You can get everything from hot dogs, to sushi, to Mexican. Some of our favorites include: Bar 326, Sushi A Go Go, and Lotería Grill. Check out their website for a full list of restaurants.
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Shop ‘Til You Drop
Shopping is a no-brainer, since the market is located next to The Grove. Shop for candles, clogs, or candy at The Original Farmer’s Market – remember a bouquet or two as well! Go to the market’s website for a directory of shops available. They have everything from Cost Plus World Market to The Container Store. Go ahead and get lost, that’s half the fun of the place!
Eat Your Veggies
With over 100 grocers available, shopping for fruits and veggies is a delight! Pumpkin, spinach, and kiwi are in season for October at The Original Farmer’s Market. Did you know? California produces 98% of the nation’s kiwi fruit. Check out detoxdiy blog for a yummy Cleansing Kiwi Chia Pudding recipe. Super tasty with coconut milk and those healthy powerhouse chia babies. We will add this one to our other favorite chia seed pudding recipes from Summer!
In addition, take note of the following seasonal veggies harvested this month:
Artichokes, Asparagus, Bell Peppers, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Chile Peppers, Corn, Cucumbers, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Onions, Potatoes, Snap Beans, Tomatoes, Zucchini
And October fruits:
Apples, Avocados, Blueberries, Cantaloupe, Dates, Grapes, Honeydew, Lemons, Oranges, Raspberries, Strawberries, Watermelons
Stay on top of the seasonal favorites by visiting the Market Buzz blog.
Ice Cream, You Scream
Finally, after all of that walking and dining, you should treat yourself to your favorite ice cream dessert. Local Ice just opened at The Original Farmer’s Market and is an organic experience. Get a partial list of their ice cream concoctions here. My girlfriend is partial to Pinkberry and I admit, we had a hard time putting that down on birthday night. Make sure to stop at Bob’s Coffee and Donuts for a cup of brew and a cinnamon roll. Then you can roll on home happy.
Parking in LA
Although parking is generally a nightmare in LA, the shopping center has two generous lots available. Thank you! Get 90 minute free parking with validation from any merchant at The Original Farmer’s Market. We also suggest you bring some cash, not all merchants accept credit or debit. Now call up your friends or grab the kiddos and head out to the Festival this weekend! See you there!