Farmers Market, Los Angeles

The first time I saw The Farmer's Market was in 1979. It was only a short afternoon excursion then from high school and for years I have always wanted to go back there and just roam around all day to my hearts content. To shop there, to eat there, to look at the souvenirs. I've been to the CBS studios right across the parking lot several times and oh was it tempting, taunting and teasing me to just hope the fence there to Farmer's Market, but I was with a controlled group then waiting in line for the taping of a game show (Hollywood Squares, Match Game). I had to behave. A day is going to come when I will go to Farmer's Market again and all by myself and with the Metro Red Line to complete the extension (Purple Line) from Wilshire to Fairfax by 2019, getting there will be easier from Union Station.

The Los Angeles Farmer's Market at 3rd & Fairfax is without a doubt the BEST Hangout in the city! Where else can you get your groceries (fresh fruit & veggies, meats, fish, spices, fine wine, fresh bread, cakes , cookies, pastries, gourmet additions.......)and indulge in a great breakfast, lunch or dinner? You can pick up your favorite magazine, newspaper, or lucky lottery ticket at the newstands. Get yourself some homemade ice cream, Cajun cookin', Mexican delicacies, or a hot latte at some of the many food stands, or what are probably the BEST doughnuts in LA @ BOB's. Sure, even though they like to consider it a seperate entity (which it is), with the addition of The Grove, you can now shop for fine clothing, computers (MACs),household furnishings (Crate and Barrel), see a movie, or grab an upscale meal or drink. You are also likely to see a celebrity around as well (celebrities have always patronized the Farmer's Market since it opened in the 30's). I'm a regular, and I see many of the same people there every morning that I go. If you go in the morning during the week you will probably also see people walking around with the same t-shirts on, all referring to Bob Barker. THE PRICE IS RIGHT tapes right next door at CBS Television Studios.

Great place to spend an afternoon. They have shops to please everyone's taste, and many choices of restaurants and eateries as well. The restaurants can be pricey, but a good less expensive alternative is the food court. They serve some of the best red beans and rice I've ever had. Trolley is fun for kids as well!