Across from Union Station in Los Angeles resides one of the town’s most historic places to eat. Olvera Street, home to the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Monument, has rich Latinx historical landmarks, markets, and restaurants. It is called the oldest street in Los Angeles. Some have called it a living museum because, well, it is. It is a museum of Los Angeles’ past, from its name to its tiled terra-cotta and brick grounds.
Nowadays, it’s also a popular spot to go before a Dodger game, as you can eat some amazing (and cheaper than the stadium food) food at Olvera Street before taking the bus to Union Station straight to the ball game. Outside of baseball season, the historic and central location naturally makes it very popular, especially for celebrations of history, such as Los Angeles’s birthday celebration on September 4th, and Latino holidays, such as Dia de Los Muertos, Los Posadas, and their annual blessing of the animals.
I’ve spent considerable time going here before the Dodgers games and heading to see my family further south on Sundays, which have been devoted to my son. Juanita’s has been my primary go-to spot in the area for my regular back and forth for things. It’s not just mine, either. Juanita’s has been a solid staple there for over 75 years. Oh, and if Eduardo, the owner, is there, you can ask him stories about the characters he’s met or roller derby, which he participates in!
