Mini markets are very popular in LA because we can discover hard to find and quality foods that might not be easy to get our hands on at the traditional grocery store. Unlike your gas station quick marts, these mini markets are filled with creative unique gifts, imported goods, specially crafted snacks and local artisan wines.
Most of these local gems are also known for their delicious selection of local and artisan breads, wines and beers, cheese, jams, and unique gifts. Some of them even feature vegetarian specialty foods and deserts, seafood, and spreads that you can’t find anywhere else.
Whether your in for a few days groceries or just want to pick up something good for your picnic or last minute gathering check out one of these awesome LA mini gourmet markets and grab something yummy!
1 – Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market
Description:
This is a favorite of us not only because of its amazing selection of delicious items, but also because it is located in the beloved Original Farmers Market. So whether you are a local or a guest, your visit to Monsieur Marcel Market will surely be worth it. Bring your date and have fun picking up delicious and hard to find items for both of your pantries, or for a romantic dinner later in the evening.
What are some of the gems to expect in this European café style market? An incredible amount of fine seafood raw or cooked including Scottish organic salmon, CA king salmon, fresh wild Dungeness crab meat, lobster, branzino, cooked Mexican cocktail shrimp.
Also discover fine Champagne, caviar, gouda aged 5 years, and many other amazing treats. And for those looking for terrific ingredients to make your dishes more delectable, you will find those special items here including truffle mustard, and black garlic olive oil.
All in the incredible energy of the Original Farmers Market making for an even more exciting experience.
Location: 6333 W 3rd St #150, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Pic Credit: @jamichelin
2 – Eataly
Description:
Their popular catch phrase “We cook what we sell, and sell what we cook” has been impressing all of LA for a while now. Eataly located in Westfield Century City, is a terrific vibrant Italian marketplace that features an array of cafes, counters, restaurants, and even a cooking school.
Come to the beautiful market to shop items for a special recipe, delicious desserts or imported and local wines. This is the type of market you want to bring someone with you because its not just shopping for food its a total experience and they’ll love it too.
There are so many things they are known for but you can definelty expect great seafood, breads, fresh fruits and vegetables, and house-made mozzarella. Meats to this market come from sustainable ranches, grass fed beef at its best.
You will also find a wide list of exquisite imported Italian wine, cured meats and cheeses. The market also offers freshly made pasta, excellent quality of balsamic vinegars, and olive oil. If you love Italian food culture you will surely find all you need here to make a memorable meal and experience.
Location: 10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90067
PIC Credit: @artisan.seeds
3 – Grow DTLA
Description:
Like most great things Grow DTLA had a humble start with just a boy and a cherry stand. But now they are offering tasty organic fruits, and vegetables to downtown locals, and plenty other items such as preserves, and cure meats in their Santa Fe Ave location (there is also another store in the South Bay).
This shop also carries delicious grab and go items, perfect for that quick lunch or unexpected gathering. They have great salads, soups, and cold pressed juice, and a catering menu.
A wide menu of made to order sandwiches is also available. Get your hands on tasty hot sandwiches made with roasted jidori chicken and gruyere cheese, or turkey meatballs, and chipotle adobo sauce.
If you prefer cold sandwiches, they have great options made with great ingredients such as roasted turkey, prosciutto, tuna, tons of veggies and excellent dressings. All sandwiches are served with coleslaw or potato salad.
Location: #C, 300 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013
PIC Credit: @growdtla
4 – Lunada Market and Deli
Description:
Are you perhaps hiking or tide pooling in Palos Verdes? Don’t leave this amazing town without first visiting Lunada Market and Deli. This is a gem tucked in the beautiful Malaga Cove Plaza, and it has an splendid array of items that will please every craving after a long hike or bike ride.
This amazing market has a juice bar with a menu of several delicious options, perfect to reenergize you after a good hike, if you are a juice lover we recommend you try Viva PV. You can also order from a generous list of sandwiches or create your own.
What else is there? Imported and local cheese, boxes of fruits and veggies ready to take to your picnic. Also find farm fresh produce, and old school neighborhood butcher. There is also a kitchen serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
And last but not least, this great market is also popular for its 16 foot wine wall! Don’t like wine? They have great beer too. When you’re done shopping, don’t forget the selfie at the Neptune Fountain just steps away from the market.
Location: 721 Yarmouth Rd, Palos Verdes Estates, CA
PIC Credit: @lunadamarket
5 – Gratitude Market
Description:
Gratitude Market is located in a super fun area in the heart of Downtown Culver City and is surrounded by tons of great spots to explore with a group of friends. This fabulous market is a quiet gem in the action that truly carries something for any taste and event. Besides being a market/gift shop they also showcase exceptional art pieces that have been displayed previously at The Whole 9 Gallery.
Expect an array of unique gifts and treasures for your household that you wont find anywhere else. There are wooden toys, amazing books for kids and grown ups, artisan candles, and fun beautiful jewelry. Also, you will find many pantry items, sauces, snacks, sensational spreads, truffle bars, chocolate, and many other delicious treats.
The next time you’re exploring Downtown Culver City you must come and check out this market and you won’t leave empty handed, guaranteed.
Location: 3830 Main St, Culver City, CA 90232
PIC Credit: @vidz_km36
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!