I was out of town when Artisanal LA made it’s debut back in October, so imagine my delight when I got word it was popping up just in time for last minute holiday shopping this weekend! I love to stuff stockings with edible goodies, and I couldn’t wait to see what delicious treats were in store. Everything is local, sustainable and homemade, like the ridiculously good Fleur de Sel Caramel Tart by Crust or the Caribbean Spice Sauce and Chipotle Olive Tapenade from All Spice Cafe. My husband and I had a little too much fun going from booth to booth testing and tasting…and of course buying! We bought Mole Sauce from San Angel Mole, pasta from Damn, That’s Good, Balsamic Barbecue Sauce from David’s Unforgettables, Cherry, Almond, & Pistachio Bark from Medina Chocolatier. And then…there was the bacon. If the  pure thought of that word makes you salivate, do not miss Cast Iron Gourmet. We sampled maple bacon, bacon chutney and bacon pimento cheese (be still my heart). The best part of this mini “food fest” is that you can sample everything before you purchase and it’s small enough to not be overwhelming. Which brings me to….

When you pay admission at Artisanal LA, you can take advantage of the ‘buy one get one free’ ticket over at Unique LA, across the street at the California Mart. This independent design and gift show has shops from over 300 local designers and artists, and is the perfect place to finish up your Christmas shopping. Though it was a tad overwhelming (vendors as far as the eye could see) and tons of people, we were inspired by all the local artists (my husband made out with three t-shirts) and my cat even got a new toy (thanks Modern Cat).

Now the WHOLE family can thank me.

NOTE: Come prepared to pay cash for everything! $5 parking available on Main between 8th and 9th…the cheapest we found. Tomorrow, December 12th from 11am-6pm is the last day.

Artisanal LA. Cooper Building. Corner of 9th and Los Angeles Streets. Downtown Los Angeles. $6 cash
Unique LA. California Market Center. 110 E. 9th Street. Los Angles, CA. $10 cash, discount with Artisanal LA wrist band

All Spice Cafe Artisanal LA Cast Iron Gourmet Damn David's Unforgettables Medina Chocolatier Modern Cat San Angel Mole That's Good Unique LA