Los Angeles — By Joannaline C. Young on February 3, 2010 at 4:30 pm

Fav Spots in Fairfax Farmer’s

One of my favorite spots to eat in Los Angeles is at the Fairfax Farmer’s Market. Here is a collection of not only different shops (like restaurants, grocery stores, and stands) but also a variety of ethnic foods. Here are my picks of restaurants and shops at the farmer’s market.

1. Singapore’s Banana Leaf

My #1 spot at the Farmer’s Market would definitely be Singapore’s Banana Leaf. The cuisine at this humble booth is a mixture of Malaysian, Singaporean, and Thai dishes. I often get the Malaysian soup Laksa and Thai chicken skewers with peanut sauce. SBL also has imported drinks with exotic flavors like mangosteen and durian.

2. The French Crepe Company

I arrived at the French Crepe Company expecting nothing special. I thought it was just a regular small stand in the middle of the farmer’s market. I just wanted to pick up a quick snack between errands. I just quickly ordered a cheese and tomato crepe and ate in the car. I was blown away at how much flavor there was not only with the mixture of ingredients in the crepe, but also the crepe itself.

3. The Gumbo Pot

This Cajun spot gives me the vibe that its all about comfort cooking. The cooks are all smiles loving what they do. You can get the classic Southern dishes like po’ boy sandwiches along with some good ‘ole seasoned shrimp. They are known for their SPICY blackened dishes.

4. Pampas Grill

Choose what kind of meat you want by pointing to a skewer at this “churrascaría”. Whatever you choose you’ll finish to the last bit. Pick your favorite sides and the plate is just weighed at the end.

5. Mr. Marcel Gourmet Market

This corner grocery store has some of the finest imported goods. They have barrels of olives and a large selection of European cheeses. Mr. Marcel also has a restaurant next door so you can try some of the products.

6. Bennett’s Ice Cream

Have a scoop of their homemade ice cream. They have the classic CVS flavors (chocolate, vanilla, strawberry). However, they also have interesting flavors like sauvignon sorbet and pumpkin. You can view them making their ice cream through the side window so bring the kids so they can learn while you eat.

7. Magic Nut and Candy Company

Also known as the Ultimate Nut and Candy Company, their signature are the long windows of treats that surround this nut and candy company. No wonder they call it “magic” because it magically makes all your troubles go away. They have chocolate covered dried fruit, my favorite are the dried oranges.

Does any of this sound good to you? When you arrive you might find favorites different from mine. However, I can guarantee one thing: you will have a favorite.

Location: 6333 West 3^rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-9pm, Saturday 9am-8pm, Sunday 10am-7pm

Photo courtesy of Luna, Ink.