Smorgasburg LA, the weekly Sunday food market in Downtown Los Angeles, continues to draw crowds with its wide range of cuisines, lively atmosphere and family-run businesses that make it a staple in the city’s food scene.
On Sept. 28, vendors filled the bustling market with the scent of freshly made tacos, sizzling bulgogi and sweet cinnamon treats.
The event offered something for every palate, from fusion dishes to classic favorites.
Smorgasburg LA is held every Sunday at ROW DTLA and features dozens of food vendors, artisans and specialty product makers. Inspired by the original Smorgasburg in Brooklyn, N.Y., the LA version launched in 2016 and quickly became one of the largest weekly open-air food markets in the country.
Its mission is to provide a space where small businesses and independent chefs can showcase their creativity and where visitors can explore a variety of flavors from across the area.
Each week, the market features more than 80 vendors serving everything from traditional street food to innovative fusion dishes, reflecting the city’s reputation as a culinary melting pot.
Over time, it has also become a launchpad for small businesses hoping to build their following in Los Angeles. The event is free to attend and has become a weekend tradition for both locals and tourists.
Among the crowd was Maria Ruiz Sanchez, owner of Whole and Oats Coffee, a family-owned business known for its colorful and flavorful drinks.
She explained that her children play an active role in supporting and promoting her business. One of her sons focuses on photography, another is studying film, and her daughter has a background in marketing.
Together, they help shape the brand and bring her vision to life. She expressed how thankful she is to have their support.
Her ube latte, a vibrant purple drink that’s both visually striking and delicious, stood out as a highlight. The drink’s delicate sweetness and smooth texture made it a memorable stop.
I sampled a variety of dishes throughout the market, starting with Tacos 1986, known for their flavorful, freshly made tacos. I then tried a treat from All About the Cinnamon, followed by the signature ube latte from Whole and Oats Coffee.
Later, I explored Shlap Muan, where the spicy Cambodian dirt wings proved to be crowd favorites. Each stop offered something unique, showcasing the wide range of cuisines Smorgasburg brings together.
The lively atmosphere was part of the experience. Friends and families gathered under string lights, enjoying live music, shopping from local vendors and exploring new flavors together.
The event felt like a mix between a cultural festival and a giant outdoor food court, with something new to discover at every turn.
For many, Smorgasburg is more than just a food market, it’s a way to discover hidden gems and support small businesses.
First-time attendee Ariela Palacios shared that she had decided to come on a whim and was happy with her decision.
She recommended the bulgogi fries, which turned out to be a popular pick among visitors.
Regular attendees like Yelena Franco view the market as a spot for food exploration. She mentioned that visiting gives her the chance to try many different foods and introduces her to new places to check out afterward.
She suggested trying the spicy Cambodian dirt wings from Shlap Muan, describing them as even better than what she’s had at Wingstop.
Whether it’s a first visit or a regular weekend outing, Smorgasburg LA provides a unique way to spend a Sunday tasting your way through Los Angeles’ vibrant food scene while supporting the local businesses that keep it thriving.
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