Farmers’ markets aren’t just a place to shop, they’re a weekly ritual, a chance to catch up with neighbors, to savor a freshly roasted coffee and sample the best of nature’s bounty without having to leave Los Angeles. Whether you’re hunting for the juiciest summer peaches, seeking still-warm loaves of bread, or simply craving a stroll in the sunshine, these markets are where Beverly Hills locals—and more than a few famous chefs—go to fill their baskets. Here are 10 of the very best, each with its own flavor and charm.
Perfect for: A delightful Sunday morning with the entire family
When: Sundays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 9300 Civic Center Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210
When it comes to the best farmers’ markets around Beverly Hills, look no farther than the heart of the city itself. Now in its 32nd year, the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market boasts 55 vendors in a peaceful, car-free environment that allows kids to have a blast while parents pick out the perfect produce for dinner.
“The Farmers’ Market has become a very important place for community members to gather and connect with their neighbors, not to mention, it’s a great way to support local farms and small businesses,” said Stephanie Harris, Beverly Hills Director of Community Services.
Located on Civic Center Drive, adjacent to the Beverly Hills Public Library, the market provides access to a wide variety of farm-fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables, eggs, meats, juices, breads, baked goods and more. It also gives residents access to the knowledge of expert farmers, who can advise on how to store and prepare the best of the season’s produce.
“We have farmers that have been with us for more than a decade, and they are enthusiastic about sharing their expertise,” said Harris. “It’s wonderful when our market patrons engage with our farmers to learn more about their produce and show appreciation for locally sourced food.”
During the fall and summer harvest, residents also have the opportunity to sample some of the most locally grown goods imaginable—fresh herbs and vegetables from the Greystone Demonstration Garden at Greystone Mansion, such as eggplants, onions, peppers and basil.
Little visitors are also sure to enjoy tasting delicious samples, dancing to the live music, getting creative at the craft tent, riding ponies and feeding goats at the petting zoo. Two hours of free parking in the Civic Center lot makes a trip to the market a no-brainer for the whole family.
On Oct. 26 the market will host its annual Fall Funtastic celebrating Día de los Muertos, Halloween and Diwali. Then on Dec. 14, it will host a Holiday Craft Fair, where local artisans will showcase their creations, perfect for holiday gift shopping.
Perfect for: Impressing your teen while getting great groceries
When: Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 741 S. Gretna Green Way, Los Angeles, CA 90049
The Brentwood Farmers’ Market is a bustling and trendy Sunday gathering perfect for picking out fresh fruit, gorgeous blooms as well as delicious, prepared soups, dips and sandwiches. The market is often packed and sometimes not ideal for small children, but a fantastic place to bring teenage children who will love checking out the many cute jewelry vendors or fun food trucks serving arepas, aguas frescas, breakfast burritos, overflowing crepes and other tasty goodies.
Perfect for: The expert or aspiring chef in pursuit of perfect seasonal ingredients
When: Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 155-199 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90401
Founded in 1981, the Downtown Santa Monica Farmers’ Market is one of the oldest and best-known farmers’ markets in all of Los Angeles, featuring more than 60 California farms. The market, which places an emphasis on fresh fruits, herbs and vegetables over packaged or cooked foods, is a favorite place for chefs to source ingredients for many of LA’s best restaurants. Some of its regular visitors include Josiah Citrin of two-Michelin-star restaurant Mélisse and one-Michelin-star restaurant Citrin; Travis Lett of Gjelina and RVR; and Evan Funke of Funke, Felix Trattoria and Mother Wolf.
Perfect for: A big, bustling weekend adventure
When: Sundays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 1600 Ivar Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028
The Hollywood Farmers’ Market is the largest in the L.A. area, boasting more than 160 stalls featuring farmers, food vendors and artisans. Founded in 1991, the mega market is also a favorite place for chefs to visit due to the wide variety of produce on offer. You can easily spend the entire morning exploring the market, which offers live music, children’s activities, knife sharpening, free compost services and book signings with some of the biggest authors in the food world.
Perfect for: The local looking to check out new vendors and kids’ activities
When: Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 1635 Purdue Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025
The West L.A. Farmers’ Market is one of the closest markets to Beverly Hills and is a great option for when residents are looking to shake up their Sunday market trip by checking out new vendors. The market is also a nice place to bring children as it offers a dedicated play area, weekly craft workshop and monthly kids’ cooking classes. There’s a big stage with a diverse live music program and plenty of seating, as well as fun food trucks and juice and coffee vendors. There is also a whole section dedicated to handcrafted jewelry, clothing and other accessories. Early birds can even enjoy a free yoga class at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday.
Perfect for: A fun trip west filled with awesome music and food trucks
When: Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 12198 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90066
The Mar Vista Farmers’ Market is a Westside staple and another big market that offers something for everyone. One of the highlights of the town-square-style market is the bustling food emporium that brings together some of the best food trucks from across Los Angeles in a spacious outdoor dining area. There are free dog-sitting services, cooking classes, knife sharpening, children’s activities and an awesome rotating mix of live performers and DJs. The colorful market is a great place for people-watching, grocery shopping and of course, sampling.
Perfect for: A midweek restock, or a lunchtime treat
When: Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 10100 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90067
Located in the heart of Century City, this market is walkable from many offices and the perfect place to meet a friend for lunch. The midweek market also avoids some of the crowds that can plague the weekend markets, giving shoppers the chance to peruse the fresh produce in a calm and peaceful environment. The market offers a great selection of farmers, artisans and vendors selling food from around the world, including Hawaiian BBQ, sushi burritos and pierogies.
Perfect for: The hippie craving an escape into the mountains
When: Fridays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 1440 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290
The Topanga Farmers’ Market is one of the most whimsical and unique farmers’ markets in the Los Angeles area. Nestled in the lush greenery on the top of the Topanga Mountains, it offers a serene and stunning place to shop. In addition to the gorgeous locale and excellent produce, a big draw of this market is the stands run by local Topanga artisans showcasing one-of-a-kind handmade clothing, jewelry, body lotions and more. For bonus points, check out a local hike after you’re done at the market.
Perfect for: Pairing grocery shopping with boutique hopping
When: Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 8400 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90069
A Sunday visit to the Melrose Place Farmers’ Market is the perfect way to kick off a day exploring the upscale boutiques located along the stylish street. The market is on the smaller side, but still offers a fantastic array of fresh vegetables, fruits, bread, baked goods, flowers and food vendors. And it’s a great local option for avoiding the crowds at some of the larger weekend markets.
Perfect for: Those who prefer an afternoon market
When: Thursdays, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 1036 Broxton Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90024
The Westwood Village Farmers’ Market is a favorite among UCLA students and places an emphasis on fun food vendors with favorites including pupusas, dim sum, and Lebanese shawarma. The later in the day market is also a great option for night owls or anyone who can’t spare the time for a morning market visit.