[DINNER PARTY]
Rae Sremmurd was right about Guatemala—but you can experience its cuisine in this L.A. gold mine
Welcome to chef/lifestyle expert Jazz Smollett’s new column, Dinner Party, a corner of UpRising to ponder all things food and culinary culture. Hope you’ve got an appetite!
Los Angeles is blessed with a dynamic food culture. Food artisans proudly display their culinary skills and indulge patrons with a depth of aroma and flavors that aim to satisfy the senses, whether at a fine dining establishment or partaking in the city’s lively mobile food scene. But there’s something special happening in the Westlake area of Los Angeles.
At the intersection of Bonnie Brae and 6th Street lives a bustling night market of street food vendors serving up the delectable flavors of Guatemala at the Guatemalan Night Market.
Starting at 5 p.m. every evening, you will find a vibrant community of local artisans cooking carne asada on an open fire, pressing handmade tortillas, and filling pupusas made from scratch.
Smoke from the charcoal fills the air and for a time your senses are in another land, distant but not too far away. A place inextricably linked to Los Angeles through its people, its food, and its culture. Outside of Guatemala, Los Angeles has the largest Guatemalan population, so expect authenticity.
For $6, you will enjoy a feast. Some of the delicious options you will want to try include garnachas, pollo y papas fritas, tostadas, tamales, pepian de pollo, carne asada, pupusas, longaniza, and churrasco with sides of macaroni salad, pickled veggies, chao mein, rice and beans. Don’t forget fresh tortillas, fiery red salsa, and grilled green onions to compliment. Be sure to try the refreshing variety of aqua frescas. I went with the passionfruit and it was a winner.
If you have yet to stop by, do yourself a favor and go tonight for dinner. Your taste buds will thank you.
Photo Credit: Ray Bolton
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