In case you were wondering, the shops at the Original Farmers Market, located at 3rd Street and Fairfax, are open for business. Shopping in person or online, for home delivery or pick up, is a great way to support local, small businesses, many of which have been in the community for generations.
“We are continuing as the community’s one-stop-shop for groceries and other essentials during these trying times,” said Ilysha Buss, Director of Marketing for the Original Farmers Market.
Established in 1934 on the Gilmore Family Ranch, the Farmers Market has evolved into a community hub with restaurants and shops as well as fresh produce. As such, the Original Farmers Market is not subject to Mayor Garcetti’s new rules for weekend farmers markets. However, the A.F. Gilmore company has removed all the tables and taken steps to increase safety in light of the COID-19.
“We are happily open-air, parking is ample and free, and there are no lines so you can easily accomplish six feet of distance between you and fellow patrons and can get in and get out. Our grocers are fully stocked with meat and poultry, fresh produce, eggs, milk, butter and pantry essentials, and specialty foods. Additionally, when you need a break from cooking many of our family-owned restaurants also remain open for takeout and are now providing new family meal options. Guests can pick up at the Market or order delivery through a variety of partner services listed at www.farmersmarketla.com/delivery,” explained Buss.
We were there last weekend stocking up for the week at some of our favorite shops. Using the Mercato.com app, we ordered the evening before and picked up all delicious supplies the next day. At the time, our items, ordered from different shops, were gathered at one location for easier and quicker pick up…but that system may change, so be sure to check with each shop if you are planning to pick up. Using the app seems to make it easier for the shops, though everyone was still getting used to the system.
Rich Kerlin at Monsieur Marcel told us how to order from their gourmet and seafood markets, which are currently well-stocked with pantry staples like pasta, beans, grains, cheese, cured meats, seafood, pasta, sauces, lentils, baguettes, wine, dairy and much more.
Many restaurants are temporarily closed but offer take-out through Postmates, GrubHub and Doordash, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, or on Mercato from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. daily.
Buss told us that several restaurants are brainstorming special family meals, too. And Monsieur Marcel offers whole roasted chickens and sides to-go and for pick-up. Price is $20 per chicken and $10 for two side choices, including haricots verts, roasted potatoes or carrots, asparagus or French fries. Order in-store or call ahead for pre-orders at 323-939-7792.
Du-par’s Restaurant & Bakery, a Farmers Market staple since 1938, has introduced Blue Plate Specials — $40 dinners for 4 people — now available for takeout or curbside pick-up. Specials include comforting classics like Chicken Pot Pie, Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings, and a Macaroni & Cheese Casserole. Most specials come with a choice of one whole fruit pie or a full stack of hotcakes. Du-par’s also just launched its famous pancake batter available to-go, so you can make the secret recipe at home. (Fun fact: The Du-par’s pancake recipe is so treasured; it’s kept in a safe!)
Fritzi Coop is re-introducing its takeout menu, featuring hearty options like Chicken Bolognese, Chicken Bite Casserole that’s perfect for the kiddos, and delicious sides like mac and cheese, cole slaw, roasted corn, curly fries, and tater tots. They have also brought back a fan favorite — Naked Fried Chicken, a 24-hour brine chicken with no breading, so you can get your fried chicken fix in a healthier way. Pricing starts at $25 for 3-4 people.
Nonna’s Empanadas is offering ready-to-bake frozen empanadas so you can enjoy its delicious baked pastries at home. Choose from over 30 fillings including mushroom, salsa verde, beef, and more.
Other merchants offering your favorite meals for pickup and delivery include Patsy’s Pizza, Phil’s Deli, Sushi a Go Go, Buca di Beppo, Blaze Pizza, and Veggie Grill. Click here for more information.
Buss told the Buzz the entire Farmers Market family deeply appreciates “the support from the Larchmont community for your ongoing support of our locally-owned, independent businesses.”
With the Passover and Easter holidays coming up, the shops at the Original Farmers Market must have just want you need.
Click the image below for the April Bugle. Check www.farmersmarketla.com for regular updates.
