When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market
Why Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market is a distinguished family-owned establishment located at the Original Farmer's Market at Third and Fairfax in Los Angeles, operating for nearly 25 years. This sophisticated venue combines a thoughtfully curated gourmet market, an authentic European-style bistro, and a premium seafood market, creating an ideal destination for gathering with friends or family. The gourmet market boasts an exceptional collection of international specialty foods, cheese, charcuterie, fine wines, artisanal spices, chocolates, and ingredients often sourced from California and Europe. Guests can explore over 600 wine labels, featuring both notable and lesser-known regions, promoting a refined culinary culture. The charming bistro offers a menu of classic French delicacies along with fresh seafood selections, served in a warm and inviting ambiance perfect for leisurely meals and socializing. Additionally, the seafood market, named Roxy & Jo’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar, emphasizes sustainable and local sourcing, offering a fresh array of wild-caught seafood, oysters, and innovative dishes like lobster rolls and ceviche. The market further complements the experience with kitchen essentials and homewares under Maison by Monsieur Marcel, blending French elegance into everyday life. Whether seeking a casual meet-up, a fine dining experience, or gourmet shopping, Monsieur Marcel provides a unique blend of quality, variety, and atmosphere that encourages convivial gatherings and culinary exploration.
Here's what people think of Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market
As of recent, Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1188 reviews.
Customer feedback for Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market is predominantly positive, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 1,180 reviews. Many reviewers praise the establishment for its authentic French ambiance, high-quality food, and extensive gourmet product selection, highlighting the freshness of seafood offerings and the thoughtfulness of the curated market items. The bistro’s classic French dishes and warm hospitality receive frequent commendations, making it a favored spot for both casual dining and special occasions. Positive reviews often emphasize the welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and the unique combination of market and dining experiences under one roof. The seafood grill’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and the freshness of items like oysters and lobster rolls are also highlighted as standout features. On the other hand, some negative comments focus on occasional wait times during peak hours and pricing perceived as somewhat high, reflecting its gourmet niche and premium product offerings. A few guests have mentioned limited seating availability, especially for larger groups, and the bistro’s policy of walk-in seating for small parties which can cause inconvenience. Despite these issues, the overall consensus from reviews is that Monsieur Marcel delivers consistently excellent quality and an enjoyable experience. The positive aspects largely outweigh the negatives, making it a highly recommended destination for food lovers seeking French cuisine and gourmet shopping in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shawn Sheng
The bistro transports you to the streets of Paris with amazing food, vibes, and service. The menu is authentic and offers lots of delicious French dishes. The market has so many items and is interesting to just browse around. Also the seafood is super fresh and delicious. The staff are all very friendly and helpful.
Chammy Chan
Monsieur Marcel is a French staple in LA! The bistro is my favorite place to dine in the Farmers Market at The Grove. The service is always great and when visiting on Sunday I had THE BEST service from our waitress who was from Paris. She even shared with us a list of her favorite places to visit in Paris… who does that?! The market is separate from the bistro and it has some great finds but the service isn’t nearly as spectacular as the bistro. My friends and I felt very uncomfortable by how much the staff at the market rushed us out because they were all antsy to close at 8pm. Sorry we were spending almost $200 on 5-6 items… we know it’s super inconvenient for you. They’re definitely nicer so long as it’s not near the time they are closing but not stellar like the staff at the bistro!
Jenny Stanley Kashola
My husband and I had a truly magical Valentine's Day dinner at Monsieur Marcel Bistro! We almost stayed home, but a class our daughter was attending nearby prompted us to give it a shot – and we are so incredibly glad we did! From the moment we sat down, we were met with stellar customer service, a delightful surprise considering the usual Valentine's Day rush. The ambiance was perfect – romantic and cozy, a charming oasis even within the bustling Farmer's Market, complete with live French music. Our server was impeccable: attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. We were particularly impressed by their willingness to let us sample all the wines we inquired about, rather than just a select few. We started with the sautéed calamari, which was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the French onion soup, a perfect balance of rich broth, melted cheese, and perfectly toasted bread. For our main course, we shared a seafood tower that was absolutely divine – fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. What truly elevated our experience was the exceptional customer service. We mentioned to the manager a French dessert wine we'd recently enjoyed but couldn't find locally. Not only did she go into the market to find a similar varietal for us to purchase, but she also generously poured us a sample of their own dessert wine to try! This attention to detail and above-and-beyond service is a rare find these days. Monsieur Marcel Bistro completely exceeded our expectations and made our Valentine's Day truly special. We will definitely be back!
Izzet Agoren
Ok this place is the star of the show. They cannot serve fois gras but they get pretty close with alternative pates. My guest and I had a selection of seafood that was prepared to perfection, particularly the crab. You cannot spend better money in the farmers market than at this place. It was so good that I went twice in the space of one week. And ate the same seafood tower again. Now I don’t have to miss being able to hop over the channel (La Manche) for an ultra high standard in food and service.
pcarruth2
Had a lovely lunch here last week with my wife while visiting. Saw good reviews on Reddit and the place didn’t let me down. Escargot was piping hot, well seasoned and tender. Mexican shrimp with the cocktail sauce and horseradish was super fresh. My wife had the salmon fumé sandwich. Bread was light, salmon was amazing, and the capers added some nice salt. I had the chicken pesto sandwich and the baguette was incredible. The chicken was cooked nicely and the cheese + pesto made this a damn good sandwich. Enjoyed some coffees and white wine along with the exceptional service from our server, Patrick. Overall a really nice lunch and would love to go back!
How to reach Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market
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Why Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market with your friends?
Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market offers an exceptional venue for gathering with friends or family, combining a rich blend of gourmet culinary delights, charming ambiance, and a unique European flair that elevates any meetup. Imagine reuniting in a place that is not only a restaurant but a vibrant marketplace filled with carefully curated international specialty foods, fine wines, artisan cheeses, and charcuterie. Located at the iconic Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles, this family-owned establishment has been delighting patrons for nearly 25 years with its authentic French-inspired cuisine and premium seafood selection. The atmosphere invites conviviality — from leisurely browsing shelves of rare olive oils and delectable chocolates to indulging in classic French bistro dishes or fresh seafood grilled right at the oyster bar. This diversity of offerings uniquely caters to varied group preferences, ensuring everyone in your party can savor something special. Beyond food, its intimate setting and warm hospitality create a relaxed yet sophisticated environment perfect for lively conversations, celebrations, and memorable moments. Simply put, Monsieur Marcel transforms a simple outing into a gourmet adventure, making it an irresistible rally point for friends seeking to connect over irresistible flavors and an unforgettable experience.
What activities can groups enjoy at Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market, Bistro & Seafood Market?
The venue offers a wide array of activities that appeal to foodies, wine enthusiasts, and casual diners alike, perfect for engaging group experiences. First, groups can explore the Gourmet Market itself, a treasure trove of thousands of imported specialty foods ranging from rare spices to traditional French macarons. Walking through the aisles, friends can share tastes and discover new ingredients, which enriches conversations and strengthens bonds. For those who appreciate cheese and charcuterie, Monsieur Marcel showcases an unrivaled selection that can be sampled, purchased, and even composed into personalized platters, ideal for casual grazing during meetups. Wine lovers will revel in the shop’s extensive collection of over 600 labels, encompassing renowned regions of France, Europe, and California, where they can select bottles to pair with their meals or bring home as gifts. The Seafood Market portion introduces an interactive experience where fresh, wild-caught fish and shellfish can be chosen directly from display for bespoke preparations. Additionally, guests can enjoy the café-style bistro offering classic French dishes or head to Roxy & Jo’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar for fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and sustainable seafood options. These multiple layers of activity—from shopping and tasting to dining and socializing—make Monsieur Marcel an ideal space for groups to linger, explore, and celebrate food together.
Why is Monsieur Marcel perfect for group meetups and celebrations?
Monsieur Marcel stands out as an exceptional choice for groups due to its thoughtful layout, diverse culinary options, and the personalized service it offers. The bistro is designed to accommodate small and large parties, with walk-ins welcome for small groups and reservations available for six or more, promoting a seamless and comfortable dining experience. The intimate yet lively ambiance fosters easy interaction, while the rich French-inspired décor and cozy café environment enhance social comfort. The variety within the marketplace caters to the diverse tastes and dietary preferences of groups, so everyone—from seafood aficionados to cheese lovers to wine connoisseurs—finds something appealing. Special services such as catering and custom orders for platters and cheeseboards allow groups to extend their experience beyond the venue or host private gatherings with ease. Furthermore, the location within a historic farmers market enriches the outing with a vibrant community atmosphere, adding an energetic backdrop for meetups. This combination of excellent food, accommodating spaces, and a charming setting makes Monsieur Marcel a premier destination to celebrate birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers.
What dining experiences distinguish the Monsieur Marcel Bistro and Seafood Market?
The dining experiences offered by Monsieur Marcel are rich in quality and authenticity, reflecting French culinary traditions and sustainable seafood practices. The bistro serves classic French delicacies such as refined cheese and charcuterie boards, paired expertly with fine wines sourced from across the globe. The menu is crafted to showcase seasonal, fresh ingredients, highlighting dishes that balance indulgence with approachability, making it inviting for both experts and casual diners. Meanwhile, Roxy & Jo’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar emphasizes “boat-to-table” freshness, offering sustainably-sourced fish, chowders, seafood platters, lobster rolls, and vibrant ceviché and poké options. This focus on sustainability and local sourcing appeals to conscious eaters while guaranteeing top-tier flavor and freshness. The seafood market allows guests to select wild-caught seafood to take home or have prepared, providing an interactive element that enhances group participation. This blend of elegant French cuisine and premium seafood, presented in a welcoming environment, creates a multifaceted culinary experience that delights diverse palates and encourages shared enjoyment.
How does the market environment enhance the group meetup experience?
The market environment at Monsieur Marcel offers a dynamic setting that extends far beyond a typical restaurant outing, fostering discovery, interaction, and shared enjoyment in a uniquely European style. As a gourmet food store, it invites guests to browse rarities such as imported olive oils, artisanal chocolates, and spices, providing the perfect backdrop for conversation-starters and tasting adventures. The ability to shop for specialty foods and beverages enriches the outing by allowing groups to take a piece of their experience home or plan impromptu picnics with market finds. Additionally, the Maison by Monsieur Marcel home store offers beautiful kitchen and tableware that inspire hosting creativity, positioning the market as a resource for entertaining beyond the visit. Services like knife sharpening and catering add convenience, allowing groups to seamlessly integrate their food passions and event planning. The bustling yet intimate atmosphere of the Original Farmers Market location adds charm and vibrancy, making the social aspect as enjoyable as the culinary offerings. This multifaceted environment enhances group interaction by blending food shopping, dining, and special services into one memorable outing.
What special services and conveniences support group meetups at Monsieur Marcel?
Monsieur Marcel provides several thoughtful services and conveniences tailored to group needs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. For larger parties, advance reservations are welcomed, helping coordinate seating and service efficiently. Catering options are available, offering beautifully arranged platters, cheeseboards, desserts, and more, which can be customized to fit any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations. The seafood market’s fresh selections can also be prepared to order, allowing groups to enjoy restaurant-quality food with the flexibility of choice. The market offers knife sharpening services with quick turnaround, adding practicality for culinary enthusiasts who might shop for kitchen essentials. Operating hours from early morning to evening seven days a week provide flexibility in planning gatherings. Combined with friendly, knowledgeable staff who provide warm hospitality and personalized recommendations, these amenities make Monsieur Marcel especially welcoming for groups looking to celebrate with ease and style.
What makes Monsieur Marcel's wine selection ideal for group gatherings?
Monsieur Marcel’s wine shop is a treasure trove for wine lovers, featuring over 600 carefully selected labels primarily from France’s celebrated wine regions but also encompassing Europe, California, and beyond. This extensive variety allows groups to explore and share different wine styles—whether rich reds, crisp whites, or sparkling options—catering to diverse palates and preferences. The staff can assist in selecting pairings that complement the bistro’s menu or market purchases, enhancing the overall tasting experience. For groups hosting events or celebrations, the wine shop also offers options at various price points, making it accessible whether you seek premium bottles or everyday favorites. This curated collection encourages conviviality, as sharing wine is a natural way to connect, toast milestones, and enrich conversations. The wine shop’s presence onsite integrates perfectly with the gourmet market and bistro, making Monsieur Marcel a one-stop location for a fully rounded, sophisticated group gathering centered on exceptional food and drink.
How does Monsieur Marcel accommodate diverse tastes and dietary needs in a group setting?
Monsieur Marcel’s broad culinary offerings and market selections make it well suited to accommodate varying tastes and dietary restrictions within a group. Their gourmet market carries a diverse range of specialty items including gluten-free, vegetarian, and artisanal products catering to different dietary preferences. The bistro and seafood grill provide menus with classic French dishes alongside fresh seafood and lighter options, ensuring there is something delightful for everyone. The availability of cheese, charcuterie, fresh seafood, and a wide variety of international specialty foods means groups can mix and match dishes and market purchases to suit everyone's needs. Staff at Monsieur Marcel are knowledgeable and attentive, ready to offer recommendations or customize orders upon request to handle allergies or preferences. This inclusiveness promotes a relaxed, worry-free atmosphere, where every guest feels accommodated and valued, making the venue ideal for mixed groups with distinct culinary requirements.
Why is the location at the Original Farmers Market an advantage for meetups?
Being situated in the historic Original Farmers Market adds a significant advantage for group meetups at Monsieur Marcel, providing a lively and convenient backdrop brimming with charm and variety. The market is not only a hub for food lovers but a vibrant community space filled with unique shops, eateries, and entertainment options, enhancing the social outing experience. Its central location in Los Angeles makes it easily accessible by car or public transit, reducing logistical hassles for group members coming from different areas. The outdoor and indoor mix of the market allows groups to stroll around before or after dining, adding a casual and scenic element to the gathering. Additionally, the diverse array of other vendors means guests can extend their visit, exploring artisanal crafts, produce, and delightful eateries nearby. This dynamic setting complements Monsieur Marcel’s offerings perfectly, creating a full-day destination where groups can eat, shop, and enjoy each other’s company in a distinctive urban marketplace atmosphere.