On my most recent visit, I came here after seeing show and wanted to grab a bite before heading home on a Sunday evening. Got here about an hour before closing so the Mercado had a chill vibe in general and the lines were pretty short... So of course I took advantage of getting food items from a couple of locations! I specifically wanted the squash blossom quesadilla or quesadilla de Flor de Calabaza from Komal and the Tostada de Kanpachi + Uni from Holbox.... wow. I just felt so spoiled with so much delicious food available to me... and with little to no wait on anything! As expected, both the tostada and the quesadilla were fantastic and oh so aesthetically pleasing. I wish my stomach or appetite was bigger. I really do want to try some of the other spots that don't get featured as much... I guess there's next time. Always a treat when visiting the Mercado. Especially when there is a possibility of grabbing a lot of different high-quality bites at different places for the same meal. Because it was on the later side on a Sunday, parking in the lot was pretty easy to find. read more

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What a great market with lots of great eateries and some merchandise stands. They even have a Michelin starred in 2025 spot, which we came for. They have paid parking or free street parking if you can snag one, and we did! read more

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Mercado La Paloma Mission Statement: Mercado La Paloma is located in the Figueroa Corridor of South Los Angeles a neighborhood that is full of creative and hard working entrepreneurs, community spirit, artists, musicians and cultural traditions. The area has historically suffered from disinvestment - including a lack of quality jobs and business opportunities, quality gathering spaces, quality food, and art and cultural opportunities. The investment that has occurred in the area has often not been designed for the benefit of those living in our community. In 1999 in response to the suggestion of some residents in Esperanza's housing developments for a local version of the bustling markets that they had left behind in their home countries, the idea for Mercado La Paloma was born. Mercado La Paloma Offerings: Offering a unique blend of local retail, cuisine, and cultural experiences. Developed by Esperanza Community Housing Corporation, it provides affordable business opportunities and living-wage jobs for local residents. 1st Floor Community Room Rental Fees: - $25/hour for current Mercado tenants, vendors, and local community groups - $60/hour for external nonprofits - $100/hour for external for-profits - $55 per day for day table rentals For Room Reservations and more information, email: daniel@mercadolapaloma.com Shop Vendor Stalls Inside Mercado La Paloma: 1) Gloria's Alterations 2) Joe's Sports World 3) Donaji Oaxacan Crafts 4) Paloma Cutlery ========= Food Vendor Stalls Inside Mercado La Paloma: 1) Holbox 2) Taqueria Vista Hermosa 3) Thai Corner Food Express 4) Chichen Itza 5) Komal 6) Oaxacalifornia ======== Wait Time: Wait time doesn't seem like an issue with 5 of the 6 food vendors. The one food vendor that you might have to wait for is Holbox (Michelin 1 Star). I went over the weekend and the food vendor stall had a separate line dedicated to the shop. Took about 40 minutes get to the front of the line to order. Parking: Paid parking can be found in their private parking lot and free parking on Grand and surrounding neighboring streets. Ambiance/Decor: Pretty cool ambiance with plenty of tables and chairs inside outside for your dining pleasure. Shops/Food Vendor Of Choice: I haven't visit any of the shop vendors stalls, but I've visited 3 (Holbox, Taqueria Vista Hermosa, and Thai Corner Food Express) out of 6 food vendors stalls. All the food vendors that I've tried were very good. Mercado La Paloma For Thought: I would mind coming back to try other food vendors. read more

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This is my first time here with my girlfriend, and it was awesome! It really felt like you were in the heart of Mexico.M Parking is pretty atrocious inside the lot but outside there's actually a lot of parking in the area. We came on a Sunday after going to the museums and it was absolutely packed. Silly Girlfriend I decided to divide and conquer. We ended up trying a little bit from Komal and Holbox! They definitely do not disappoint. It was loud and bustling. Vibrant colors everywhere and so many different kinds of foods! read more

Mercado La Paloma - Holbox - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Great place to go check out. There are several food establishments in this small area, mainly Hispanic food. Parking is not the best, but it is worth giving these restaurants a try . read more

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So many food choices available! They have everything for all your cravings, literally... Lively ambience and great spot to meet with coworkers read more

Mercado La Paloma is know for being a collective group of merchants, bringing forth culture, community, and resistance. The Mercado hosts several food vendors such as Michelin star restaurants Komal and Holbox, but at affordable prices to be experienced by all. There's also a few retail vendors for cutlery, Oaxacan goods, and of course, soccer jerseys. In addition, the walls are covered in what they call "Graphic Resistance" - a representation of oppression across communities such as women, Latino, LGBTQ, and more, with a focus on those who continue to fight for equality. This was truly an experience for me, and I'd love to return. read more

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SCIENCE CENTER AND MERCADO DAY This food hall is crazy! So many people coming in and out, and a huge line for holbox. It smells great inside. The parking situation is tough and maybe pricey if you park upfront but the culture is thriving here. Live music, different foods. It's a perfect spot to grab a bite after visiting the science center down the street. read more

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We love Mercado La Paloma! I've been there at least 3 times, and most recently we went twice. We went on a weekday in the mid-afternoon for a light lunch/ snack. It was a delightful experience, with wonderful ambience. There were a lot of people there, but we were able to find comfortable seating immediately. We loved it so much, that we wanted to bring family members, so we arranged to go on a Sunday afternoon. It was packed, and initially we thought that we wouldn't be able to get in, because there was a massive line outside the front door which was really, really long. JJ went in to check it out while I went to look for parking. He said "it's okay." He reported that the long line was for Holbox, but that we could enter the hall. Although it was very crowded, we found a great table that seated 10 people, so it was great! We ordered from Komal and Oaxacalifornia which were both great. I will review them separately. It is so much fun, and the vibe is very upbeat and cheerful, so conducive to a great dining experience. Decor is also great with bright colors. After we had our lunch at Komal, we went and got some great cafe de olla and a bunuelo, which was so much fun. During our big dinner party, everyone got to choose a meal of their liking, and there was something for everyone. We've never had a problem with parking. There is a small parking lot, and recently, I've noticed that you are supposed to pay at a kiosk for parking (not upon entry). When we went on the weekend, it was packed, but found parking in the DMV parking lot (you enter at the regular parking lot entrance, then go to the back to enter the DMV lot). Highly recommended! Give it a try if you haven't been there:) read more

Mercado La Paloma - Paloma La Mercado interior - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Great food, casual atmosphere, good variety, and the special photo exhibit is awesome....

I was trying to find a place to get some food after our trip to the Natural History Museum nearby and this place was suggested. It's a food hall and I think it's hilarious that one of the recommendations said, "No homeless in sight that should convince you enough". Christ on a bike lol. Either way, they do have a parking lot and if you are courageous enough to brave the dummy drivers of LA, there's free street parking too. There's security near the entrance/patrolling the lot area too, so whoever commented on that, they are right. The original goal here was to go to Holbox, but that was immediately nyxed as there was a massive line inside that trailed all the way outside to the parking lot. I knew it was good, but didn't know it was that good! Many of the other vendors didn't really have a line and we made a circle throughout to see what they had. A lot of Mexican food and a Thai food place. Looks like a lot of them they give you a number, you find a seat somewhere, and they'll find you to bring the food to you. I'm sure the food tastes fine, the place where we got our snack was decent, just very pricy and I guess that's what you get with the space, the atmosphere, but I've had better for much, much cheaper. Decor here is a mix of cultural, eclectic, and for the current art display, a bit controversial and political. So maybe a perfect first date place if you want to test the opinions of the other party lol. Overall, it's an alright food hall, but there's better out there. read more

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I love this food hall. Holbox is the most popular choice, but there's also excellent food at other places too. Chichen Itza is the older restaurant of the chef Gilberto (holbox) family. Komal has delicious food and is the expert with masa and tortillas. Oaxacalifornia has the best selection of agua frescas. There's Thai Corner that I have not yet tried but want to check out. Taqueria Vista Hermosa is great. There's something for everyone and the ambiance is always bustling. Parking can be difficult if you're visiting during busy hours on the weekend. read more

The good: I've tried 2-3 places inside of here. There's indoor and outdoor seating. You order food, get a number, and they'll bring it to you or you can go up to the counter to get your food. I liked the Mexican dining options and art. The wooden chairs added a homey Mexican vibe. There are so many interesting food options here and there's a little bit of something for everyone. I love food halls because it's easy to meet up with a group that might differ in what they want to eat. The bad: The parking lot is small and tight. I was able to secure a spot but it's hard to find. The interesting: Holbox is one of the most popular spots here because it's Michelin rated. read more

We came here on a Sunday evening, and it was busy, but thankfully there were still parking and seating available. This food hall has mainly Mexican food vendors with one random Thai food place thrown in there. There is also a little shop with Mexican crafts and a place for alterations. That being said, of all the half dozen or so food vendors there, half of them are heavy hitters. Although it is busy, the vendors are very good about sending people around to clear tables to free up tables for other patrons. The bathrooms are decently clean, and there are free water stations at various places. In terms of parking, their front lot is lot A, which you have to pay for, but if you're willing to walk a few extra steps and park in lot B, it is free. We only visited one vendor, Holbox, on our first visit, but I definitely would come back to try the others. read more

Public market style various places mess hall style with delicious eats to pick from. Located near the coliseum a great place to grab a bite to eat before attending an event. The seating is first come and be prepared to be in line for some areas. Most of the picks and flavors are from different regions in Mexico. The service is fast and the food is delicious. The place does get busy and noisy. Great for big groups better to find seating for smaller groups. read more

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A community based collaboration highlighting the diversity, creativity and entrepreneurship of the area. A one stop spot of restaurants, shops and community space. I have been here several times for lunch but Mercado La Paloma is more than eateries. A place to promote and advertise, a place for creative artist expression such as poetry, dance and paintings and where vendors offer goods, jewelry and more to purchase. That said, I have visited here mostly to eat. Some of my favorites are Chichen Itza and Taqueria Vista Hermosa for tacos, burritos and combo plates. The parking lot gets full during lunch time but there is additional spots across from the DMV read more

Mercado La Paloma - Great Spot for Lunch - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Fabulous food market with several outstanding vendors, including Holbox, Chichen Itza, and Komal. There's a Oaxacan place I'd like to try too! Mostly food, but at least one crafts vendor. They also host special events. Small dedicated paid parking lot. read more

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I went to Donaji Oaxacan Crafts at Mercado La Paloma with my dad and partner and we got three beautiful shirts, a hand towel, and a colorful large bag for a gift. The owner and worker we're welcoming, engaging, and helpful in finding the right size and styles. They let us try on shirt sizes and when we realized we could not find something in the right size, she noted it down to hopefully get more inventory of it in the weeks that followed. As someone petite, I really struggle finding right-sized high quality shirts, but I found them here! I look forward to coming back for a new shirt in the future. read more

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A pretty good food hall, with many restaurants to choose from. An exotic and fun experience to come here. read more

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Mercado La Paloma is a true gem in South LA -- relaxed, unfussy, and one of the most authentic experiences you can have north of the border. The food is fresh, the crowd is unpretentious. When you come in, you will see a big line for Holbox, James Beard nominated and Michelin Guide-rated casual Mexican seafood counter featuring local and sustainable seafood. Skip the line, come inside and order mole, asada, tacos or whatever catches your eye from the other spots. Who to bring: well everyone, especially friends and family who are food adventurous. At the moment, you cannot reserve ahead for Holbrook, otherwise it would be a super nice casual dinner date place for us. For now it's a place to get real - Mexican - food and impress out-of-town guests. Where to park: there is a metered parking lot, and in the evenings we park at the DMV lot. Parking seems intimidating but hasn't ever been an issue. read more

Came with colleagues for lunch after months and there's been changes; such as, parking on the lot that only takes Google or Apple pay (good luck finding street parking!) and a line spilling out the door for Holbox. My colleagues got food from Holbox and the other venues. If you tell the person taking the Holbox orders that you're with a large party which we were, you can cut up front, but you'll get dirty looks from the people waiting patiently in line who are unaware of this. This made a few people in our group go elsewhere than Holbox bc it was awkward. Good luck finding a table large enough for all of us too. Food was delicious, but bc of the crowd and parking, we won't be back during busy lunchtime! read more

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Amazing food selection. I've been going for years and the environment is always great, vendors and food. I love the Oaxacan restaurant spot. I recommend the tlayudas and horchata. read more

The food is ok, however the path to the restaurants are very dangerous due to the amount of cars passing. One has to even sprint to try not to get run over. Also, because of the VERY small parking signs and unhelpful security, we ended paying about $100.00 in parking fees! I understand charge the fee, but $100?! This place is so overrated and disappointing. read more

Mercado La Paloma has transformed so much within the last few years . expansion and growth is necessary as with all elements of life . whatever your food preferences , dieterary , religious and cultural discipline there is an option for your palate . homemade beverages beyond simple mass produced brands . food prepared low and slow . served to you , with grace love and dedication . and pride . be mindful of what time of day you visit , accommodating for families , work date quick lunches , mid day refreshments. after work delights. for those moments /days where you just don't have the energy to get yourself through passing moments . come to Mercado Paloma your vibe will be lifted . five star experience all around . always has been . two decades strong. a brief time to connect with The Emperor who had limited time in the city . 20+ years and counting a reliable constant . breathe deep read more

Mercado La Paloma - time well spent - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Food was good once we were inside. HOWEVER, it was our first time coming here and we saw a long line outside. We got into the line and waited for an HOUR, just to find out the line was only for ONE of their food businesses. We thought the line was to get into the entire Mercado. We waited for an hour until finally a staff member came out and told us the line was just got Holbox. It would be nice if they had signs or something to make sure people don't wait in line for nothing :( read more

Mercado La Paloma - Long line on a Sunday - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

The plaza is busy with plenty of good Oaxacan/ Mexican food hall. Parking is very limited with a small lot, so please try your luck with street parking (my party found street parking). The line for the 2024 Michilen Holbox (pronounced: Hole - bosh (long Os) was crazy long so perhaps we will try another time. My party ended up eating at Oaxacaliformia Kitchen having ordered two mole dishes with fall off the bone chicken and a side of white rice. Once an order is placed guests are given a number on a stand. Finding a table to eat requires scouting for seats during a very busy lunch hour. Once seated servers are so great at finding your location to bring your entire food order. The noise level wasn't too loud and tables were promptly bused after parties finished their meals. I look forward to trying other food vendors next time. read more

​I first stumbled upon Mercado La Paloma two years ago, and I honestly couldn't believe I hadn't heard of it sooner. Sometimes, the best discoveries are the most unexpected ones. My visit was sparked by a post-race hunger, right after cheering on my stepson at the LA Marathon with his mom. It felt like stepping into a vibrant secret world right in South Los Angeles. Go figure--you really do learn something new every day! ​But Mercado La Paloma is much more than just a food court; it's a powerful community initiative. As a project of Esperanza Community Housing Corporation, this space was ingeniously converted from a garment factory into a vibrant community gathering hub. Its core mission is tangible: to provide retail opportunities that cultivate business ownership and create essential jobs for the local community. This focus on upliftment is what gives the whole place such a genuinely warm and positive energy. ​The layout itself reflects this dual mission. While the first floor is a bustling culinary center, boasting an incredible array of authentic Latin cuisines, the second floor is dedicated to non-profit services, hosting important meetings, events, and classes. I appreciate that it offers a couple of unique retail shops, but for me, the magic lies in the deep culture and the communal gathering spaces where people meet and connect. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy here, regardless of what you're looking for. ​And when it comes to the food, the selection is world-class. The market is home to some seriously acclaimed spots, including Holbox--a Michelin star restaurant that also recently claimed the #42 spot on the prestigious 50 Best Restaurants list for 2025. While Holbox offers an exceptional experience, my personal favorite is Oaxacalifornia. Their colorful aguas frescas are perfectly refreshing, their tortas are delicious and satisfying, and their authentic tlayudas (Oaxacan crispy tortilla with toppings) are simply not to be missed. ​Mercado La Paloma is a dynamic testament to community, culture, and cuisine. It's an essential stop in South LA that nourishes the body and the spirit. read more

More than just a food court. Mercado La Paloma is a space where nonprofits and small businesses coexist. It was established by Esperanza Community Housing to reduce barriers and allow economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs and restaurateurs. They are near 37th and Grand, in a building that used to be a garment factory. I can never find an open parking spot here, but the overflow lot next door always has space. Current restaurants: Holbox, Taqueria Vista Hermosa, Chichen Itza, Oaxacalifornia, Thai Corner Food Express, Komal Shops: Quest Taxes & Insurance, Gloria's Alterations, Joe's Sports World, Donaji Oaxacan Crafts Conference room available for rent. Small vendors can also rent tables for the day to sell items. I already wrote a review for Holbox ( https://yelp.to/T09K9puRjH ) last year, when they were Bib Gourmand. Decided to give them another visit now that they have a Michelin star. It was obviously busier this time around, with the line moving at a glacial pace and stretching past the entrance. They were kind enough to give samples of their yellowtail tostada while we waited. After you order, find an open table and ask an employee to wipe it down. Chips and salsa are no longer complimentary, but it's only $1. Everything was stellar. I inhaled my two rockfish tacos, which were freshly battered and wrapped with fresh vegetables, along with a drizzle of different condiments like crema, mayo, and salsa roja. Taco de Pulpo en su Tinta is the most tender octopus you'll ever consume. Filete al Carbon was a nicely grilled branzino that was accompanied by rice, beans, and other things. "Affordable" and "Michelin" seem like oxymorons, but they manage to accomplish both at the same time! read more

Mercado La Paloma - Michelin Star mariscos @ Holbox inside the food court - South Central | Los Angeles, California - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

My friends and I decided to try one of the eateries on the 2025 L.A. Times 101 best restaurants, the 1st one on the list was Mercado La Paloma/Holbox. My God, Lady Luck was with us for this food-gasmic odyssey! We arrived on a Thursday at 1:30pm, snagged a free street parking spot right out front and walked in to find TWO people waiting in line at Holbox! I was preparing to stand in line for an hour to try this Michelin-rated gem. Alex, our Gorgeous Greeter, asked me if I wanted to sit my party of 3 at the bar/counter, as a spot just opened up. We had front row seats to watch the ultra fresh seafood being transformed into some of the most stunningly delicious and beautiful dishes! My favorite was the gorgeous , sweet scallops floating in a bright and verdant aguachile marinade that made my mouth sing out in jubilee with each mouthful! Every. Single. Thing. We. Ate. Was. Divine!!!! Next trip, we are going to try the Father's restaurant, Chichen Itza. read more

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And if you didnt try Holbox, you made a mistake. The Etheopian place is great as well for a very different take. There is also a pretty decent Mexican spot as well. Great place to try different foods, and see some architecture. read more

Holbox is gonna smack every time. Line gets long on weekends now. The food is fresh, light, quality seafood in everything. Michelin level food for quick service prices. Basic picnic table food hall style seating. Haven't eaten anywhere else besides holbox but it looked great all around. read more

Mercado La Paloma - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Omg. What a gem! Went to Hotbox, Michelin star three years in a row!!! Absolutely delicious and fantastic service e. I'm going back for their tasting menu! read more

There is no wrong food choice at La Paloma. Every vendor they have seems to have delicious food which varies between seafood, tacos, dessert, and other authentic dishes. My family and I go there specifically for the panuchos. We have not found another place where we have enjoyed them so much. I remember going to La Paloma when I was younger and had more of a 'mercadito' feeling, rather than now feeling more modern-hipster. Perhaps my memory is wrong. Either way, the place is nice, clean, with plenty of seating and has a great ambiance. The workers from all shops seem very friendly. There is parking outside, but it can be crowded depending on the day and time you visit, which might cause to park on the street. I recommend going with a group of people and getting something from each vendor to taste a bit of everything :) read more

Mercado La Paloma - Panuchos - Latin American Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I came in during the weekend I was a bit intimidated it looked so full! Don't be afraid it's probably just the Holbox line. The food was great and service was quick they give you a number and bring your food to where you're seated which is a plus! read more

The Mercadito is absolutely gorgeous--I felt like I had stepped straight into Mexico. The variety of food options is incredible. I ate at Chichén Itzá, and the panuchos and salbutes were definitely authentic--something I can say with confidence since I grew up eating my mother's Yucatecan cuisine. Their fish tacos were out of this world as well. I did miss my mom's fresh habanero salsa, which is a bit more lemony, but the salsa they served in prefilled bottles still added a great kick to the food. read more

Great food we love the service. The verity of food was great . The mix ceviche was the only thing that really was not of my taste, but the Oxijaca mole was delicious. read more

Lunch with friends and colleagues during my visit to LA. This place is amazing if you want local delicious food. Get here as fast as possible! Here are my thoughts: Environment This is a great local establishment in South LA near USC. It's a midsize food court with plenty of great vendors to choose from. The space is ran by a local non profit that caters to local businesses in the area. During the time we were there it was just getting busy. It's an active busy but not too busy space. Service We spent our time exploring the different food stalls deciding on which ones we wanted to try. Once you decide, like most food halls, you go up to the counter order your food they give you a number that you can take to your table and they will bring you your food. Food and drinks I ended up ordering chickens tacos and beans and rice from Chichon Itzo and a fish taco from Holbox (to see what the hype was about!). I learned that both stalls are ran by the same family - the father runs Holbox and the son runs Chichon. EVERYTHING was delicious. Plenty of flavor and delicious. I would recommend trying both places. I will definitely go back. Overall A wonderful food hall thats staple in the community with great food and a great place for lunch by yourself or for larger parties. Definitely a highlight of my trip. read more

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Fantastic , favorite place in LA Holbox. Great energy, staff is the best and the food#1

I've been in an on-again-off-again relationship with Los Angeles for technically over 6 years. I don't really go for Mexican foods even LA is popular for " Taco Everyday". If you're foodies, you'd feel like your grandma's kitchen. This is YELP which means it's not about just " Eaters", just so you know. I usually review for " vibe" and local business. Here, this is so hyped. Esp " Sea Foods". It's so hard to get with reasonable priced seafoods either in NY or LA ! Finally, I bumped into this hidden spot. It's the best coincident ever. The place is super clean, parking lots and just 5 minutes away from DTLA. Look like Grand Central Market, DTLA tho, smaller, nicer and I'd say better. Since this place is small, there's not a lot of variety yet. Asians, Seafood fusions or Mexicans. It's worth to try Tamales and yes, I mentioned, it's very reasonable squids, fried octopus ! Self-service. DMV is right around the corner that there's not much to do around here. read more

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A gourmand food court of largely Mexican regional cuisine, Mercado La Paloma is a place I should have discovered long ago, as it's been there quite some time. My daughter ordered from Taqueria Vista Hermosa, whose fresh blue tortillas were otherworldly. I ordered from one of the newest stalls, Komal, whose menu is one of intrigue. I had the Quesadilla de Hongos, a blue corn quesadilla with a mushroom stew. The hot sauce was memorably delectable. Though, I probably should have tried some of the more challenging dishes on the menu. I will definitely do that next time. read more