Market Style Dining

Market style dining locations, such as Grand Central Market in Downtown Los Angeles or Eataly in Manhattan, provide a variety of palate-pleasing options for guests. These outdoor- and indoor-style eateries are popping up across the nation and catering to a more diverse crowd. In addition to providing an eclectic culinary experience most markets also feature community events, local performances and artisan shops.

Los Angeles’s Grand Central Market brims with both flavor and history. Since it opened in 1917, the market represented the diverse, delicious flavors of Los Angeles and caters to the shifting demographics of Downtown Los Angeles. Some vendors, such as China Cafe, have been in operation since the 1940s. These old favorites are interspersed with new, trendier restaurants, such as G&B Coffee, Better Booch and The Oyster Gourmet. This variety makes the market a unique destination and provides an edible snapshot of Los Angeles.

Although New York’s Eataly market is focused on Italian cuisine, it still offers a delectable group dining experience. There are numerous food and produce vendors as well as ample seating and community events. Eataly partners with local non-profits, such as City Harvest, an organization that combats hunger in the city by redistributing food to lower-income communities. They also offer cooking demonstrations, live music and holiday events.

Unlike traditional restaurants, market style dining locations encourage interaction and offer a crowd-pleasing variety of food. They beg a return trip and provide a unique and delicious insight into the local culture. Bon appetite!