Mercado La Paloma: Building Community, One Dish at a Time
Discover Mercado La Paloma, a nonprofit food hall supporting family-run restaurants and celebrating diverse culinary traditions. Visit for authentic flavors and a true sense of community.
At Mercado La Paloma, food isn’t just about flavor—it’s about creating opportunities. Guided by the visionary work of Esperanza Community Housing, this nonprofit food hall is home to family-run restaurants that share their unique culinary traditions while building a sense of community. From authentic dishes to a welcoming atmosphere, the Mercado is a place where small businesses grow and culture thrives.
“We’re not just a marketplace; we’re a response to the barriers that small business owners face,” says Moises Gomez, Director of Economic Development. “Here, we’re building opportunities for families to thrive and share their heritage.”
A Nonprofit Food Hall Rooted in Community
Housed in a former garment factory, Mercado La Paloma opened its doors in 2001 as part of Esperanza’s mission to address South LA’s status as a food desert. The first floor is home to a diverse array of restaurants, while the second floor serves as office space for nonprofits providing vital services to the surrounding community.
What sets Mercado apart is its approach to supporting businesses. Unlike traditional food halls, which often demand hefty leases or a percentage of gross sales, the Mercado offers affordable rates tailored to help family-run restaurants succeed. This model has transformed lives, providing not just economic opportunities but also a platform to celebrate cultural identity through food.
Among the standouts are Taquería Vista Hermosa, which began as a tamale business run out of a van, and Holbox, a celebrated seafood restaurant that has earned a coveted spot on the LA Times 101 Best Restaurants list and been recognized with a Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
Flavors to Savor: Must-Try Dishes
Each restaurant at the Mercado brings something unique to the table. Whether you're a fan of Yucatecan cochinita pibil or crave a modern twist on Thai classics, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few standout dishes you won’t want to miss:
Holbox: The taco de pulpo en su tinta is a flavor-packed bite of tender octopus in its own ink. Holbox has even received a Michelin Star.
Taquería Vista Hermosa: Their fried quesadilla with chorizo, greens, and crema is a hidden gem.
Chichen Itza: The quintessential cochinita pibil is a must for fans of traditional Yucatecan cuisine.
Thai Corner: The chicken basil dish bursts with aromatic spices and bold flavors.
Beyond the food, Mercado’s table service and vibrant communal atmosphere elevate the dining experience, making it a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike.
Beyond the Plate: A Cultural Beacon
Mercado La Paloma is more than just a dining destination. It’s a hub for cultural programming that highlights the richness of South LA’s diverse communities. From Día de los Muertos celebrations to live music and art events, the Mercado connects people through food, art, and shared experiences.
“We’ve created a space where businesses and nonprofits coexist, employing hundreds of people from the neighborhood and building a true sense of community,” says Gomez.
Looking Ahead
With plans to expand programming and continue fostering entrepreneurship, Mercado La Paloma is poised to grow even further as a cornerstone of South LA. Its success is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and community-driven development.