A night out for two in Downtown LA
Share plates, split a dessert, and walk the alley: a casual evening out. Free entry, open Friday to Sunday.
A casual evening out
Imperial Night Market is an open-air evening food market at 2300 E 15th St. Entry is free, so you spend only on what you eat and drink.
It is open Friday 6:00 to 10:30 pm and Saturday and Sunday 5:00 to 10:30 pm.
How to do it
Order different things and split them. Shared plates let you try more for the same money. Start with something savory like birria quesatacos or cemitas poblanas, grab an agua fresca, and finish with churros or fresas con crema. Dishes are available when a vendor is serving them.
Good to know
Arrive early for the full lineup and shorter waits. Bring cash, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes, since the ground is outdoor asphalt with railroad tracks set into it. The market is open air, and heavy rain or wind may pause it.
What to order for two
Pick one savory dish and one sweet dish each, then trade halfway through. Because plates are small, you can try three or four things between you without a long sit-down meal. Many stalls are cash only and some take cards or Zelle, so bring cash.
Check Instagram or TikTok at @imperial_night_market before you head out. Rain updates and the night's lineup are posted there.
Make it an early evening
Arriving early means the full lineup and shorter waits, so you can take your time ordering.
Parking and rideshare
See the parking and rideshare guide for free street parking rules and the best rideshare drop-off.