Nick's Picks: Grand Central Market, Los Angeles

[Nicholas Kontis]

When one thinks of downtown Los Angeles, the first thought to come to mind probably isn't one of America's oldest and diverse food markets, Grand Central Market. Besides offering some of the freshest produce, meats, fresh fish and more in Los Angeles, the market is a sumptuous walk through "tasty treat heaven."  Living part of the year near downtown L.A., I'll take a bike ride to sample the various food  eateries throughout the small market. Many people may not know that Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the world. Boasting the largest Korean, Thai, Iranian, and Armenian populations in the U.S and even outside of their home countries.

Shopping for fresh produce at Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market dates back to 1917 and is located on the ground floor of the stately Homer Laughlin building, which once housed an office for American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, forming the centerpiece of L.A.'s Historic Core District.

Moles - Chile Secos

Come to the market for fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, fresh fish and seafood from California and around the world fresh squeezed juices, herbs and spices, medicinal remedies, ice cream, frozen yogurt, and more.

China Cafe - Great Prices, Large Portions

What I enjoy most are the neon signs. Most of the 38 merchants have colorful signs with each business in lights. Some with cool logos such as Lupita's Seafood, who's sign is a blue swordfish in neon blue lights. A true step back in time to a past era.

I enjoy watching the human interaction. You can find all walks of life at Grand Central Market, and hear many different tongues. Come for the sights, sounds, and smells. This is intercity living in a multi cultured city. White collar workers from the various local and state buildings to blue collar workers on a lunch break flock the market for delectable goodies. Locals coming for a heaping plate of chow mein at China Cafe or to sample some of the Mexican and Latin flavors including meat piled high, Tortas, Cuban sandwiches at La Adelita Panaderia/Tortilleria. Fresh seafood at Lupita’s. Hawaiian BBQ, Bento Japanese, a slice of New York style pizza at Corleone’s. Sarita's Pupuseria for Salvadorian cuisine, Roast to Go for thick sandwiches. So many “can’t miss” food options in a small downtown market

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Velarias Chiles-Spices

Lupita's - Some of the freshest Seafood in Los Angeles

Get Your Meat on at Roast To Go

Grand Central Market retains its old-world charm. On your next visit to Los Angeles, take a step back in time.

Where:  Located in downtown Los Angeles' "historic" district between South Hill and South Broadway at 4th Street. Across from the Angels Flight railway and the office towers of Bunker Hill.

When to go: The market is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Nearest Freeway: Grand Central Market is off the 110 freeway

About the Author: Nick Kontis - Travel Expert and Founder of the World Travel List

Nick Kontis started out as a world traveler at an early age traveling back and forth between California and Greece every summer. But it was a backpacking trip around the world at age 24 that proved to be a life changing experience. After traveling by car, train, plane, bike and, boat around the world, it would be this trip of a lifetime that would lead to a life as a travel entrepreneur and world traveler. Nick has been on both radio and television. Featured on Arthur Frommer’s television show, and referred by Lonely Planet writers. Frequently mentioned as the “father of around the world airfares.” Arthur Frommer once said, “If Jules Verne were alive today he would use Nick to go around the world in 80 days.” Nick and his various travel companies have sent over 10,000 people taking their dream trip through airfare discounts of as much as 50% off the airlines published fares. Now Nick promotes travel through his World Travel List and ‘Trip Rambler’ by World Travel List. Having traveled to over 80 countries Nick hopes to inspire others to travel the world. Follow Nick's "passion for travel" on the World Travel List.