Grand Central Market - Los Angeles, CA

We took a break from our heavy meals and wandered over to the Grand Central Market for lunch our third day in Los Angeles.

The oldest and largest open air market in L.A., the Grand Central market showcases the wares of more than 38 merchants selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, candies, nuts and herbs from around the world. An internationally diverse array of food vendors feature Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, El Salvadorean, Hawaiian and American fare, making it a popular lunch time gathering spot, as well as market destination.

With the hustle and bustle of the locals and tourists alike, the Grand Central Market is as busy as the Reading Terminal Market in Pennsylvania, though not nearly as large or as clean. As an open air market (without air conditioning), inside it was hot and stuffy, with an abundance of flies tempted by the food and aromas. With saw dust covering the floor, it's not the most appetizing spot to eat, but we had heard about the legendary tacos and were not turning back until we gave them a try.

We stood in line at Anna Maria's and when it was our turn, ordered our tacos ($2.50 ea). We watched as roasted chicken was diced, then piled on soft white corn tortillas and topped with onions, chili peppers, hot sauce, cilantro and lime wedges. We started salivating in anticipation of our first bite. Drippy and delicious, the tacos could only have been improved with the addition of guacamole, salsa and sour cream (which we will know to order the next time).

Tempted to go back for more tacos, instead we decided to join the crowds in line at the China Cafe. We were fortunate to obtain stools at the crowded counter and ordered Mongolian Shrimp ($6), Fried Shrimp Chop Suey ($4.07) and Egg Noodles ($2.75). The Egg Noodles, served in a bowl of chicken broth, were overcooked and starchy, and the Chop Suey had too much bok choy for my taste, but the Mongolian Shrimp was definitely worth the wait! Crisp, fresh peppers, onions and scallions were stir fried with shrimp, rice and a Mongolian sauce. As I looked around the counter, it was this dish - made with patrons' choice of shrimp, chicken or beef - that most everyone was enjoying.

Though we were full, we meandered around the market for awhile longer, and grabbed a Chocolate Shake from The Tropical Zone Ice Cream & Juice Bar to enjoy on our walk back to the hotel. The Grand Central Market is definitely worth checking out when visiting L.A. if only to sample the ethnic foods, people watch, and enjoy an inexpensive meal.