Meet Me At 3rd and Fairfax!

I think everyone's got a Farmer's Market story.

My mom's very first job was at the Magic Shop there 40+ years ago. I remember my grandmother always bought me and my sister rock candy every time we visited The Farmer's Market Candy Shop. My friend's family used to meet there every Sunday for brunch. And, my husband's first job was scooping ice-cream at Gill's Ice Cream Parlor, which has been there since 1937 (the ice cream parlor...not my husband.)

Yes, Farmer's Market is full of history. It sits in the heart of the Fairfax district on 3rd and Fairfax near the famous Canter's Deli and next to CBS Television City. I haven't been there in a while, and traveling around LA wouldn't be complete without a visit there.

In 1934, farmers parked their trucks and sold produce to local housewives on vacant land known as Gilmore Island. The idea was so successful that, by the end of that year, Farmer's Market had stalls, shops, restaurants and special events, like the Fall festival, which still goes on today.

Over the years, Farmer's Market, owned by the Gilmore's, evolved to eventually become one of the top tourist attractions in town! It was declared an historical landmark in 1991 and expanded in 2002 to include the North market and The Grove, an upscale, much-needed-for-this-area outdoor mall.

It's the mother of all farmer's markets. It's got great people, a funky environment, fresh produce and every kind of food you can imagine! There's Brazilian BBQ, Mexican cuisine, Sushi, French crepes, pizza, burgers, Cajun food and more! Yes, it's a food court...but, what a food court! Eat at Loteria Mexican Grill (great food!), Pampas Grill (great deal!) or dine al fresco at Monsieur Marceau. And, if that's not enough, get yourself a short-stack of pancakes at Du-par's Restaurant, which is almost as old and landmark-y itself!

Try to go early or at off peak hours- this place gets crowded! The traffic can be very heavy around there and the parking (or lack thereof) can be quite a challenge! I suggest parking at The Grove, which is adjacent to Farmer's Market, and then just walking next door.

Go for the food, the snacks, the bakery, the hot sauce, the history, the people-watching or the souvenirs. Go for breakfast, brunch, lunch, drinks or dinner. Whatever the reason, just go!

Quick Tips:
1- Go early or at off peak hours...this place gets crowded!
2- Check out their website - they have lots of great events coming up (including live music on Thursday and Friday nights) to celebrate their 75th anniversary.
3- Directions