People having lunch at Grand Central Market in DTLA

Grab an Unforgettable Lunch at Grand Central Market

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Take an adventurous culinary tour at Grand Central Market. Stationed in a 1917 Beaux-Art-Style historical building in the heart of DTLA, Grand Central Market hosts over 30,000 square feet of market stalls and serves as a melting pot of some of the most delicious modern food trends and diverse ethnic cuisine that Los Angeles has to offer. Eat oysters, buy produce, sample artisanal foods, drink Boba, belly up to a counter for some Thai food, and finish with a slice of freshly baked pie. It is a vibrant atmosphere with over 40 vendors and something for everyone.

People getting lunch at Grand Central Market

What you need to know

Grand Central market is open daily from 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM however, hours do vary from vendor to vendor. It is open to the general public, and there is no entrance fee.

Located in DTLA at 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 it is an open marketplace with dining inside and a few tables scattered outside. During the busiest times and the lunch rush, tables and chairs can be hard to come by. So if you see a spot, grab it, and maybe grab some extra napkins in case you need to wipe it down. There are two main entrances: one on Hill Street and the other on Broadway.

The lunch counter at Grand Central Market

Getting to Grand Central Market

There is plenty of public transportation and a nearby metro stop. Pershing Square Station is just one block from the Market place.

There are several attractions within walking distance to the market making it the perfect meeting spot to start or end your day. The market is within walking distance to the The Broad, Disney Concert Hall, the Los Angeles Central Library, Angels Flight Railway (which is just across the street), MOCA, Chinatown, Staples Center, Union Station, and The Last Bookstore to name some popular destinations.

Indoor seating options at Grand Central Market

Parking at Grand Central Market

There is a parking garage located next to the market at 308 S. Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90013. Parking is $5 for the first 90 minutes, and $2 for every additional 15 minutes with a daily cap of $25. You can also try for metered street parking if you are feeling lucky.

Fat and Flour Pie Shop at Grand Central Market

What to Bring to Grand Central Market

The market is a shared gathering place where the crowd, energy, smells, and people-watching are all part of the experience. To help navigate the bustling environment and ensure a more enjoyable experience, here are a few tips.

If you want a more relaxed experience, arrive early or late to avoid peak mealtime hours and longer lines. Research the vendors ahead of time to identify must-try food items. This can help you make the most of your time by prioritizing the stalls you want to visit.

If there is a long line at your must-try food spot remember, good food is often worth the wait. We always like to engage the vendors asking for recommendations or special dishes. Don’t forget to share and sample with friends and family. Trying a variety of new flavors can enhance the experience. And don’t be afraid to explore the less crowded areas at Grand Central Market — sometimes the unique experiences and hidden gems are beyond the obvious.

Shop fruits and vegetables at Torres Produce
Candy, dried fruit, and a selection of nuts is available at La Huerta
A wall of colorful begerages

Other Things to Note

The Grand Central Market also hosts weekly events including live music, pop-ups, walking tours, ArtNights, weekly bazaars, movies at the Million Dollar Theater next door, and other public events. Be sure to check their calendar!

Matt sitting at an outdoor picnic table waiting on his lunch from Maple Block
Lunch from Maple Block at Grand Central Market

Got a favorite new lunch spot at Grand Central Market? We’d love to hear from you. Reach out on our socials or contact us with your tip. And be sure to check out our blog for more fun things to do in DTLA!

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