Monday Morning at the 3rd Street Farmer’s Market
The greatest thing about living in Los Angeles is the availability of excellent ingredients around every corner. On the corner of Fairfax and 3rd lies one of my favorite places in Los Angeles: the 3rd Street Farmer’s Market. I live just a few blocks south in Miracle Mile, so the 10-minute walk north takes me through the La Brea Tar Pits. Fortunately the smells at the market are considerably better than those at the Tar Pits…
My first stop is always by the produce stands, where I can find an amazing assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms. Most things are always in season, as the California climate lends itself to wonderful growing conditions all year long. My next stop is The Huntington Meats Company, which has one of the most diverse selections of meat in the city. The guys behind the counter are always helpful and always have helpful suggestions with marinades and cooking preparations. The quality of the meats is wonderful, and the prices are also extremely reasonable. Some days I get a late start in the morning, which provides me a wonderful opportunity to stop by The Gumbo Pot for a Fried Oyster Po’ Boy for an early lunch. After going to school in the south, I miss good old fashioned southern cuisine, and The Gumbo Pot is authentic New Orleans food done right. The corn bread is also spectacular, and washing it down with a sweet tea takes my taste buds right back to The Big Easy.
My final stop at the market is always Monsieur Marcel. This is my absolute favorite place at the Farmer’s Market. Whether purchasing duck fat, sampling the wide variety of charcuterie and cheeses, or cruising through their wine cellar looking at all of their wonderful vintages, the subtle Parisienne influence is a treat for any true foodie who can’t afford the plane flight across the Atlantic, and yet yearns for the soul of the French countryside. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and is willing to assist you with any question you may have. And best of all, on your way out, stop by the bistro just outside the doors of the store, sip a glass of wine, and drink in the culture that is the 3rd Street Farmer’s Market.