City Views, Train Rides, and Giant Mojos – A Foodie Adventure Awaits!
It was a nice Monday morning in Los Angeles, 80 degrees in December! Once lunchtime hit, I thought, what better way to spend this beautiful and warm Monday morning in the heart of Los Angeles? That's when I had the great idea of visiting Grand Central Market for lunch! Did you know? Grand Central Market is only one metro stop away from Los Angeles Self Storage! I didn't know at the time either! Once I searched it up, I was up for the adventure.
During our 5–10-minute walk from Los Angeles Self Storage to the entrance of the Metro, I was able to enjoy the city views of the beautiful Los Angeles. I would have never had the chance to revel at these buildings if I were in a car just zooming through the city.
I very much enjoyed this little walk- it was like a mini city tour! I come here often but this was a very unique experience. To be able to savor each and every view and step you take was an amazing experience.
As excited as I was for this adventure, I was a bit nervous about taking public transportation in Downtown Los Angeles. It hasn't always had the best reputation since almost everyone in L.A. owns a car.
I'm not going to lie; we were surprised at how empty and clean the train station was. Many employees were walking around to handle anything that might come up. Lots of employees were also making sure that the place was in tip-top shape.
Getting on the Metro was fairly simple and easy to navigate. Once on the train, it ran very fast and the next thing I knew, we'd already arrived! It was such a quick train ride; only one stop!
We got off at our stop which was Pershing Square. We vigilantly followed the map as it was our first time doing this. We were about two blocks away from Grand Central Market, but that walk was also delightful and enjoyable. I was looking up most of the time to see these buildings up close, hoping that I wouldn't trip and fall.
We finally made it to Grand Central Market! This place isn't just another tourist trap (although it is a tourist spot). This historic landmark, dating back to 1917, is a historical legend. There are over 35+ vendors in this food emporium, offering everything from mouthwatering chicken sandwiches to authentic Filipino cuisine. Trust me, whatever you're craving on any day, Grand Central Market will have something for you.
Grand Central Market is all about the vibes!
Perusing through this 30,000 square-foot hub, was an adventure in itself. I really struggled to decide on what to eat for lunch that day. Luckily, I glanced at Lucky Bird's menu and saw the Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich. My stomach rumbled reading that and I just knew! I had to try it. The sandwich had a colossal piece of juicy, flavorful chicken and I also decided to try their mojos! Those mojos were just *chef's kiss*. It was the biggest mojos I've ever had in my life! It was fresh off the fryer but it was worth burning my tongue for. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and sprinkled with sea salt flakes.
Across the market, I was excited to see that Rosie decided to try Filipino food at Sari-Sari Store. Seeing their stall definitely flooded me with nostalgia. It looked just like those mom-and-pop food stalls I would eat at growing up in the Philippines.
Rosie ordered the Lechon Kawali bowl and it was scrumptious! Crispy pork belly, savory garlic rice, a fried egg on top, and a symphony of sauces that will for sure transport you straight to the bustling streets of Manila. It was a flavor overload!
Visiting the Grand Central Market was an overall good experience. Speaking of good vibes, the communal dining tables made you feel like you were a part of a collective community of food lovers! And what is life but eating good food and sharing it?
After we'd filled our bellies, we noticed the Angels Flight Railway which is known as “The Shortest Railway in the World” right across from Grand Central Market. It was definitely a sight to see and is a great activity after eating good food.
So, what are you waiting for? Embark on your own culinary adventure from Los Angeles Self Storage. You won't regret it! It felt like we were on the East Coast just having a nice walk in the city, taking the train, and grabbing lunch. That's definitely how Rosie and I felt! Almost like we were on a vacation, exploring a different city.
Grand Central Market
317 South Broadway
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Mon-Sun: 8 AM-9 PM
GrandCentralMarket.com
