If you’re looking for a fun dinner option, food halls are buzzing social hubs where you can sample creative eats, grab a craft cocktail and snap a few photos for the group chat — all in one sizzling spot. Here are five of SoCal’s best food halls that are totally worth the drive (and the calories).
Liberty Public Market: laid-back vibes and a little bit of everything
If you haven’t been to Liberty Public Market in San Diego’s Liberty Station, it’s time to fix that. The setting’s cool — historic naval buildings with a modern, industrial twist — and the food is packed with flavor and variety.
Start your food crawl with a croissant from Le Parfait Paris or a spicy bowl of pho from Slurp. Then head over to Paranà for empanadas or grab a fresh pint at Bottlecraft. The whole place has a chill, hang-out-all-afternoon energy, and with the waterfront just a short walk away, you can stretch your legs (and your waistband) after round two. Address: 2820 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106. Visit libertypublicmarketsd.com.
Anaheim Packing House: old-school charm with modern flavor
The Anaheim Packing House is what happens when history and hip meet in the middle. Housed in a beautifully restored citrus packing facility from the early 1900s, this spot is full of character and really good food.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of bold, creative eats: Indian street food with a California twist at ADYA, crispy chicken and waffles at Georgia’s, and rolling hot pot at Rolling Boil. Save room for Popbar’s dreamy gelato pops or sneak into the hidden speakeasy, the Blind Rabbit, if you’re in the mood for a cocktail and a little mystery. It’s the kind of place where you could spend hours and still feel like you missed something. Address: 440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805. Visit anaheimpackingdistrict.com.
Grand Central Market: downtown LA’s classic that never gets old
A list of SoCal’s best food halls wouldn’t be complete without Grand Central Market. Some food halls are trendy, but GCM is legendary. Right in the middle of downtown LA, this spot has been feeding locals since 1917 and it still feels fresh every time you visit.
It’s all about the mix here: old-school vendors like Sarita’s Pupuseria are neighbors with modern-day hits like Eggslut (yes, still worth the line) and Sari Sari Store, where Filipino comfort food takes center stage. Whether you’re in the mood for a pastrami sandwich from Wexler’s or just want to wander and see what smells amazing, this market always delivers something new and seriously tasty. Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013. Visit grandcentralmarket.com.
Haven City Market: Inland Empire’s low-key gem
Rancho Cucamonga might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of buzzy food halls, but Haven City Market is out to change that. It’s sleek, it’s fun, and it has a great mix of comfort food favorites and Insta-worthy treats.
Grab a booth and dive into rotating sushi at Kura, build your dream grilled cheese at Get Toasted or go big with one of Crème & Sugar’s ridiculous (and ridiculously good) milkshakes. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s easy to hang out for a while when you’re in that post-meal happy zone. Address: 8443 Haven Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730. Visit havencitymarket.com.
The Hangar at LBX: polished, playful, and full of flavor
Long Beach’s Hangar at LBX is like a food hall with a first-class upgrade. The aviation-themed space is modern, airy and packed with options that are just the right mix of elevated and easygoing.
Kick things off with a bold banh mi from Bite Mi or go comfort-classic with a melty sandwich from Plaid Sheep Grilled Cheese Bar. Bottle Logic pours some of the best craft brews in the region, and if you’re in the mood for dessert, The Dolly Llama’s waffle ice cream creations are next-level. It’s a great stop before a movie, after some shopping or as the main event for your night out. Address: 4150 McGowen St, Long Beach, CA 90808. Visit thelongbeachexchange.com/the-hangar.
