This summer, I decided to take my kids on an adventure that combined two of my favorite things: spending quality time as a dad and indulging in ridiculously good tacos. So, with no hesitation, we headed to Los Angeles’ iconic Grand Central Market, a food lover’s paradise that has been around since 1917. It’s one of those places where you can feel the heartbeat of the city—bustling, colorful, and filled with tantalizing smells that make your stomach growl before you’re even through the doors.
The thing about Grand Central Market is that it’s not just a place to eat. It’s an experience. It’s a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and people, and there’s something magical about wandering through the stalls, wide-eyed and with growling stomachs, trying to decide what to eat next. For a dad looking to entertain two picky eaters while satisfying his own taco cravings, it promised the perfect adventure.
The Warm-Up: Arriving at the Market
We arrived at the market early in the afternoon, just as the lunch crowd was hitting its stride. The energy was infectious—vendors calling out orders, the sizzle of grills, the chatter of families, and the clinking of silverware. My kids, wide-eyed and full of curiosity, grabbed my hands as we walked inside, their heads swiveling to take everything in.
The first thing I noticed was the smell. It was a kaleidoscope of flavors—roasting meat, fresh tortillas, spices, and the unmistakable aroma of sizzling onions. My daughter, who’s obsessed with anything involving cheese, immediately tugged on my arm and pointed toward one of the taco stalls. “Tacos, Dad!” she said, as if reading my mind.
Taco Stop #1: The Classic Carne Asada
Our first stop was an old-school taco stand claiming to serve "the best carne asada tacos in LA." A bold claim, but I was up for the challenge. Watching the chef expertly chop the grilled steak, pile it onto warm tortillas, and top it with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime—it was mesmerizing.
When the tacos came out, they were simple but perfect. Juicy, tender meat, a bright pop of lime, and the smoky char of the grill. My son, initially skeptical about the cilantro, took one cautious bite and immediately grinned. “This is good, Dad,” he said, with his mouth still full.
The Learning Experience: Food and Culture
As we ate, I took the opportunity to talk to my kids about the cultural significance of tacos and Mexican cuisine. I explained how tacos are more than just food—they're a connection to history, a symbol of community, and a celebration of flavor. My daughter, who’s big on asking questions, wanted to know how tortillas are made, which led to a fun discussion about masa and how it all starts with corn.
It felt good to turn this outing into more than just a meal. It was a chance to teach them something new, to help them appreciate the people and culture behind the food they were enjoying.
Taco Stop #2: The Al Pastor Revelation
For our second stop, we moved to a stall specializing in al pastor tacos. The sight of the spinning trompo, with juicy pork glistening as it roasted, drew us in like moths to a flame. The chef sliced off thin, caramelized strips of pork and topped them with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
The kids were hesitant at first—I think the bright yellow pineapple threw them off—but after one bite, they were sold. The combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors was nothing short of magical. My son even declared, “This is better than pizza!” which is basically the highest compliment he can give.
Exploring Beyond Tacos
While the tacos were the star of the show for me, the kids were equally fascinated by all the other foods at the market. We passed stalls selling everything from fresh oysters to handmade pasta to gourmet ice cream. At one point, my daughter spotted a stall with a rainbow array of aguas frescas and insisted we try some. We ended up sipping on watermelon and mango drinks that were refreshing enough to make us forget about the summer heat outside.
Of course, no food adventure with kids is complete without dessert. After some negotiations (and by that, I mean them wearing me down), we grabbed a pile of fresh churros coated in cinnamon sugar. Watching them devour those churros, their faces covered in sugar and their laughter echoing through the market, was one of those pure dad moments I’ll always cherish.
The Chaos and Joy of Dining with Kids
Taking your kids to a busy market is not without its challenges. There were moments of chaos—spilled drinks, a near-miss with a tray of tacos, and a debate over whether we should sit inside or outside. But honestly, those little hiccups just added to the adventure.
At one point, my daughter decided she was in charge of finding our next taco stand, which led to a hilarious ten-minute detour past a vegan bakery and a sushi stall before we finally landed at a seafood taco stand. It wasn’t part of the plan, but hey, sometimes the best memories come from the unexpected moments.
Taco Stop #3: Baja-Style Fish Tacos
Our final taco stop was a stall specializing in Baja-style fish tacos. These beauties were made with crispy, beer-battered fish, a tangy cabbage slaw, and a bit of creamy chipotle sauce. They were a hit with everyone, even my son, who usually avoids anything remotely “fishy.”
By this point, we were all feeling stuffed but immensely satisfied. It felt like we had eaten our way through a world of flavors, all within the walls of one market.
Wrapping It Up
As the afternoon wound down, we found a quiet spot outside to sit and reflect on the day. The kids were still buzzing with excitement, recounting their favorite tacos and debating which stand had the best flavors. My daughter was team al pastor, while my son was all about the fish tacos. For me, it was impossible to pick a favorite—they were all unforgettable in their own way.
Looking back, what made this day special wasn’t just the incredible food (though that was a big part of it). It was the time spent together, the laughter, the shared discoveries, and the fleeting but meaningful moments where I could see the world through my kids’ eyes.
Why Grand Central Market is Perfect for Families
If you’re a parent looking for a unique way to spend the day with your kids, Grand Central Market is a must-visit. It’s not just a place to eat—it’s a sensory playground, an opportunity to explore different cultures, and a chance to bond over the universal joy of good food. Whether you’re a taco fanatic like me or just looking for a fun outing, it’s the kind of adventure that leaves everyone happy and full.
As we packed up to leave, my son turned to me and said, “Dad, can we come back next weekend?” And honestly, how could I say no to that?
