Handlebar Bike Tours is lucky to call Grand Central Market home. Established in 1917, the market is an entire city block, with over 40 food vendors. This vibrant, historic food hall is different from other big city markets in that it’s not just for tourists, it’s a tradition among locals to come in for lunch, to buy chilis or pregame before a Dodgers game. On any given day you might run into a Mariachi band, a political photo op, or an influencer in the wild. It is Los Angeles’ kitchen table. That said, it can be overwhelming, so let us list the top 10 tips for Los Angeles’ Grand Central Market.
- Getting there and parking: There are 2 Metro stations within a 1 block walk, Pershing Square and Historic Broadway Station, the later being nicer. Parking at the Market is accessed at Hill & Third Street, and is only $5 for the first 90 minutes, but after that it gets expensive. If you plan to stay longer, head to one of the outdoor lots on Hill next door for $10-$12 daily rates. Beware; the garage has tight corners and tiny spots, your Sprinter van won’t fit. If you’ve got luggage in tow, there is luggage storage at the info desk, and with us!
- Navigating: The market is a big square with a grid pattern. 3 main aisles run East to West, and you’ll be able to see most of the vendors cruising these 3 aisles. Grand Central Market is multilevel, with the Bazaar(weekend pop-up textile mart) and restrooms in the basement. On the main floor you’ll encounter stairs, but a mobility lift can be found on the north wall next to the stairs.
- Grab a drink and cruise the aisles: G & B Coffee is an award winning roaster located at the Hill Street entrance (near Handlebar Bike Tours meet spot!). For something stronger Golden Road Brewery is right next door. If you’re on the Broadway side, Bastion Bakery has an espresso machine or The Juice is its neighbor.
- Breakfast: Egg Slut is the big breakfast spot, and you’ll find a significant line between 9 and noon, but come early for no line, and to make your 10AM bike tour. For something easier on the wallet, and closer to a diner Jose Chquito is your spot. Wexler’s deli makes a great egg sandwich or a bagel and schmear.
- Tacos: You’re in L.A. you want a taco! Meat lovers should head to Tacos Tumbras for heaps of meat on a tortilla, same with Roasts To Go and Villa Moreliana. New comer to the market is Villas Tacos, and we’re currently obsessed.
- But I’m a Vegetarian!: Don’t worry, there’s plenty for you in Grand Central Market. Ramen Hood is serving up some savory vegan ramen this carnivore loves, and Golden Road Brewery was founded by vegetarians making some great pub grub with vegan options too.
- Is there any table service?: If grazing shoulder to shoulder market stalls is not your thing, head to the Oyster Gourmet’s programatic oyster shell, belly up to the bar, and the kids behind the counter will deliver gracious counter service of fine French wines, and the freshest oysters and ceviche in the city. They get 2 deliveries a day, and sponsor a huge Los Angeles Oyster Festival every fall. China Cafe, going strong for 50+ years also has friendly counter service with hearty soups and Budweisers served 2 at a time to the night shift workers having dinner for breakfast.
- I’m on a budget!: The Market can get pricey, but happy hour at Maple Block has filling $5 snacks and brews weekdays 4-6. For The Win’s burgers start at $9, and any of the taco spots are gonna fill you up for under $10. Sarita’s Pupuseria is an under $10 treat too.
- Where do I sit?: There are tables sprinkled throughout the Market, and many kiosks have seated counters, but sometimes it is so busy it can feel like a bad high school cafeteria experience finding a seat. Head to the outdoor patio, behind Golden Road and you’ll find long tables good for groups, plenty of spots for single diners, shade trees and twinkle lights. Maple Block, and its beer/wine bar is here too, with TVs to enjoy a game.
- Room for Desert?: McConnell’s Ice Cream is a must, peanut butter chip is my kryptonite. Fat and flower is famous for pies, but try the banana pudding if it’s not sold out yet. Bastion Bakery has Insta-worthy beautiful, shareable tarts and you can’t go wrong with a Tiger Tail from Donut Man. Grab a bag of chamoy candies at La Huerta candy on your way out.
Hope this quick guide to Grand Central Market helps you navigate this DTLA institution.