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The Echo Park Farmers’ Market is bigger than it looks. Situated inconspicuously in a parking lot just south of Sunset Blvd., it only has around twenty stalls. That’s pretty small compared to some of the behemoth markets around town, but the variety of fresh food available here is impressive.
I recently explored the market with the fabulous Kelly Smith of the Echo Park Now blog. We had a great time ogling the fruits and veggies—highlights included giant zucchini, lush leafy greens, yellow raspberries, and plenty of intriguing unidentifiables. We also enjoyed a feast of samples from some very serious cheesemakers.
The Middle Eastern food selection was pretty spectacular. I purchased spicy labneh and some delicious babaganoush, but it was hard to choose just two after sampling so many different types of hummus and yogurt dips. The same vendor also sold pita chips, baklava, and olive oil, which left me wishing I’d brought more cash.
What struck me the most about the Echo Park Farmers’ Market was the mellow vibe. There wasn’t that frenzied element that can be intimidating at larger markets. All the sellers we met were very friendly and eager to answer questions about their products and farming practices. It’s great to buy food from passionate people.
My only regret is that I didn’t get to try the barbeque from the Bigmista stall —they ran out of before I could get my hands on it!
The Echo Park Farmers’ Market happens every Friday from 3-7pm. It’s located south of Sunset Blvd., off of Logan Street in parking lot #663.
-Valentina
