El Mercado de Los Angeles

El Mercado de Los Angeles is a three-story building in Boyle Heights located at the corner of First Street and Lorena Street. The space contains restaurants, shops selling goods, and places for entertainment all located together.

The building was constructed in 1968 on the former grounds of a lumber business. It has served as a gathering space for several communities in the neighborhood since its opening.

Live mariachi musicians perform throughout the space, creating a constant musical backdrop that defines the character of the marketplace. This sound is deeply woven into the daily experience for shoppers and residents who pass through.

The marketplace offers currency exchange between dollars and pesos, plus international money transfer services to Latin American countries. Plan for crowded conditions, particularly during busy hours when many shoppers and diners visit.

A ceramic tile mural from 1991 decorates the exterior walls, depicting the Mayan rain goddess through abstract patterns. This artwork represents pre-Hispanic deities and catches the eye of anyone entering the space.

Location: Los Angeles County

Address: East 1st Street

Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday 10:00-20:00; Friday-Sunday 09:00-21:00

Phone: +13235268808

Website: https://el-mercadito-los-angeles.com

GPS coordinates: 34.03701,-118.19392

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:08