LA County: The Largest & Oldest Open-Air Market

In the middle of Downtown LA sits a bustling open-air market full of groceries and food stalls specializing in cuisine from around the world.

Grand Central Market has been a hub for people of all walks of life since 1917. Nowhere in Los Angeles is the cultural and international diversity of the city more prominent.

You can find Mediterranean spices, nuts and dried fruit, fresh fish on ice, cheap produce, cheese, salsa, cactus, kebabs and more. It's a trove of exotic ingredients for lovers of cooking seeking inspiration and immigrants looking for a taste of home.

The market's best known for its mean tacos. There are several taco stalls which are always swarmed with people competing to shout their order up to the fast-cooking assembly line. "Yes, beans. No, pico de gallo. Extra cheese!"

It's really the fresh corn tortillas and the tender, marinated meat which makes these tacos so memorable. I recommend a traditional preparation of tortillas, lime, cilantro, onions and meat.

Then, grab a seat and dive in. The people watching is what completes the experience.

For more information on Grand Central Market click here