Grand Central Market has been running on the ground floor of the historic Homer Laughlin Building since 1917, occupying a full city block between Broadway and Hill Street in Downtown LA. Its location right near the Angels Flight funicular railway makes it a central fixture of the neighborhood. The building itself is a six-story Beaux-Arts structure, and the market’s 30,000-square-foot space is a vast, open-air hall with a steel frame and concrete floors that speak to its long history.
Inside, aisles are packed with around 40 different food stalls, all lit by the glow of vintage and vintage-style neon signs. The whole setup is a microcosm of the city’s food scene, mixing legacy vendors that have been here for decades with newer culinary businesses. You’ll find long-standing tenants like China Cafe and Roast To Go operating alongside popular spots like Eggslut, known for its egg sandwiches, or The Donut Man with its fresh strawberry-stuffed donuts. The offerings are incredibly diverse, with everything from Michelin-recognized tacos at Villa's Tacos to lobster rolls, pasta, and Thai food.
The market opens daily at 8 a.m., but it's good to know that individual vendor hours vary, and some don't get going until later in the morning. It gets extremely busy, especially during the lunchtime rush, when finding a seat at one of the communal tables can be a challenge. There are both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and it’s a popular stop for a meal before heading to an event at a place like Dodger Stadium. For parking, there's a convenient on-site garage with an entrance at 308 South Hill Street.