Here in Los Angeles, we usually spend our Sunday mornings at the big, bustling Hollywood Farmers' Market. But sometimes we crave a change of pace; we want something a little less crowded, a little more intimate. On those occasions, we head to the Atwater Village Farmers' Market.

Though small, the market is so beloved by the local community that last year residents banded together to fight a threatened eviction from the Wells Fargo parking lot where it is held. Fortunately, the bank had a change of heart and the market continues to thrive there on Sunday mornings. The market celebrated its fifth anniversary this past weekend.

About 20 farmers and food vendors bring seasonal produce, fish, eggs, baked goods, nuts, preserves, live plants, and cut flowers to the market, which conveniently begins at 10 a.m. for late risers. It might not have Hollywood's glittering array of vendors, but the Atwater Village market is perfect for shoppers who want to dictate their own pace (breeze through quickly or take one's time), have a friendly chat with vendors, and fill their baskets with a solid selection of fresh, local food.

Among the standard seasonal fruits and vegetables are specialty items like Asian vegetables, Araucana chicken eggs, duck eggs, goat cheese, artisanal breads, and handmade vinegars (try the Lime-Thyme from FrogDog Herbs!). For those who get hungry while shopping, there's also Bigmista’s Barbecue, which has developed a strong local following.

(Images: Emily Ho)

Around the Web

• Atwater Village Farmers Market [Facebook]

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