Los Angeles has almost as many farmers’ markets as citrus varieties. Having been to a bunch of markets over the weekend, I thought I’d share my thoughts if you’re in a quandry…especially after hearing about yet another awesome sounding market, from Sandra of Embrace Sweets who was at the Larchmont Market:
If you are in town Thursday evening, you should plan to visit the Yamashiro Farmers Market in the Hollywood Hills. It’s from 5-9 pm, a lot of fantastic vendors – unlike the traditional markets. It’s more of a community gathering, lots of tables and chairs to meet up with friends, they have wine tasting, pairing, buy by the glass or bottle, great hot foods, a great view of Los Angeles; we share a booth with an Australian coffee company, jazz band and open mic for other musicians to come in perform.” (In particular she raved about Vinyl Soul.)
On Saturdays the Santa Monica market is a classic, although I was truly surprised to see it only 2 blocks long this week.
Sundays are a tough choice. Just a few of your options:
- At the 4 block long Hollywood Farmers’ Market you can discover the new pastries and preserves from Valerie Confections; goat cheese from Soledad Goats (now also at Beverly Hills; the cheese in olive oil is a MUST try) and lots of great produce, honey, nuts, and even couture clothing.Avila Farms‘ new pistachio, pecan, and other nuts butters they make from their nuts are a must try. They’re going to be ramping up production soon. Plus there’s the market cafe, which I have yet to experience.
- A market in Beverly Hills on Little Santa Monica behind the police station often has petting zoos and live music. If you haven’t had Bolani from East & West Afghan Gourmet, based in the Bay Area, I’d trip here for a taste.
- A small market in Larchmont Village has a nice selection of fresh produce and a few stands I hadn’t seen elsewhere, including sun tea.
- Visit the Mar Vista market where my friends of p.o.p. candy often sell their freshly made butter crunch and you’ll find great granola and other treats, in this small market.
- If you haven’t gotten enough, trip on over to Venice where you’ll find a market packed with beach goers and locals. Be sure to try Basil Tops pesto. They grow their own basil. Yum. (Also now at Hollywood.)
This is a small smattering of available markets that can keep you well fed and loaded up with fresh fruit, ready to eat avocados, and plenty of delicious breads and pastries.
Find farmers’ markets all over Southern California.
