A Wren Says

The Uber driver told me that there was one place that I should definitely go to try food in Los Angeles: The Farmer’s Market. He did warn me that it isn’t a real farmer’s market. It is however a collection of stalls of individual vendors. It’s a great place to go if you want to try multiple cuisines or satisfy a group that can’t commit to one restaurant.

As a good Uber driver, he let me know that I should choose The Grove as my dropoff spot. I did just that, and wandered into and out of shops before heading to the real destination.

It was packed that day. If you are uncomfortable with crowds and tight spaces, this may be a pass for you. After twisting around and beginning to get overwhelmed, I opted for something quick and handheld. Nonna’s Empanadas it was. I wasn’t impressed with my choices, nor the L.A. markup on the price, but it was food.

If I were to go back, I would do these things differently:

1. Do research on all the stalls there. I honestly felt lost and unsure of what to get. I also was directionally challenged. I panicked in fear that I may never leave the maze. If I had prepared better, I might have found food that better fit my mood and got to it with less stress. They do have a map online I discovered just now.
2. Bring a tote bag. It was more than just food. If I were mentally prepared to potentially buy a jar of honey or greeting cards, I might have indulged in more shopping. Maybe it was good thing I wasn’t.
3. Consider coming early in the day. Maybe that would help with crowds, but maybe not. It is a touristy area, so people on vacation have time to come and go as they please.

But I wonder, have you been The Farmer’s Market? Do you have any tips?