The Grand Central Market 

Yesterday, I was at the Grand Central Market in Downtown Los Angeles. My friend had not been there before, but I had a bunch of times because I lived in DTLA for about 2 ½ years. It has an entrance off Broadway and one off Hill Street.

I like this place because it feels homey. The atmosphere is super casual and there are locals and tourists from everywhere. Some people are oblivious of the patrons around them them and may knock you over; some are more polite and excuse themselves. So, be prepared for anything. There are plenty of kiosks that offer all sorts of food from breakfast to ice cream, to Latin, Asian, Italian and American food. I have tried couple of the kiosks in the past and they were meh. My friend liked their woodfire pizza. It’s best to get something small and test out the food first.

When I lived in the area, I used to walk everywhere and never had to pay for parking. They have a parking lot off Hill street. I suggest you take it, because it’s cheaper than other lots. Just make sure you hangout for less than 90 minutes and pay your 5 bucks. Stay longer like us, and you’ll end up paying much more.

Across the street is Angels Flight Railway which takes up to Grand Avenue. Walk around on Grand Avenue and you will find the Walt Disney Concert Hall which has complimentary daily tours worth taking.

We left our car there and walked around for about an hour or so. Hill street is the Jewelry district. My mom loved jewelry and knew a couple jewelers here.

My friend was looking for a special Mediterranean place recommended by someone, and she couldn’t find it. We crossed Hill Street, and lo and behold we found it. Apparently, many people order takeouts from Z Falafel. They are supposed to have the best falafel. I bought a few and brought it home. I don’t know if they’re the best, but they are good. It’s a bit spicy. I ordered a vegetable side, and the owner was kind of stingy and stuck me with fried potatoes which I did not want. So, make sure you hang around and watch what he puts in your takeout. Also, ask for sauce or he will not give you any. This place is located between 7^th and 8^th on Hill, and worth checking out.