Take A Trip Down Memory Lane When You Visit The 7 Oldest Shops In Southern California
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Allyson Lambert
Author
If you love history and shopping, then you might want to check out these old-fashioned shops that have been around for decades, with some being over 100 years old. These family-owned businesses in the Greater Los Angeles Area all hold a special place in the community. From bakeries to a toy store and a guitar shop – we have a little bit of everything for you to explore today.
This family-owned confectionary has been around since 1903 and is now considered the oldest shop in LA’s Little Tokyo. They are known for making Japanese rice cakes (known as mochi) and manju (which are sweet bean-filled rice cakes). Learn more about their history and famous mochi on their website.
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Since 1917, Grand Central Market has brought a vibrant food scene to Downtown LA. With 90+ vendors including grocers, Jewish delis, bakers, florists, and more, the market ties together the many cultures and culinary tastes of the area. Visit their website for information on vendors and to learn more about the market.
If you love books, you’ll have a field day at Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena. As Southern California’s oldest bookstore, Adam Clark Vroman founded the shop in 1894 in memory of his late wife. He loved books and giving back to the community—and those values remain at the heart of the store today. Check out their book selection on their website to be mesmerized by the massive reading collection available today.
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One of the oldest hot dog stands in LA has been opened since 1939. They started selling hot dogs during the Great Depression for 10 cents and Cokes for a nickel. Today, the prices have increased, but the line still continues around the block. Line up to get your hot dog, and while you're at it, go check out their menu on their website to gather inspiration for your order.
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Known for its famous birthday cakes, Phoenix Bakery is truly a treasure in the LA area. The bakery was founded in 1938 in Chinatown by the Chan family and acted as a gathering place for the community, serving authentic Chinese Pastries. Visit their website to learn more about their signature cakes and the history of this iconic shop.
Candelas Guitars has been selling handcrafted guitars for 85 years in LA. For three generations, Tomás Delgado's family has been making guitars locally; however, the origins of this shop go back to 1928 in Mexico where Delgado's grandfather first opened a store. Today, musicians come to the store to buy custom guitars or strings, or to get guitars repaired. Learn more about the shop on their website.
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Kip’s Toyland, also known as LA’s oldest toy store, will have you feeling like a kid again. The aisles are full of fun board games and classics you’ll remember from your childhood. The toy shop was established in 1945 and remains a favorite of customers of all ages. Learn more about the store’s history on their website and take a trip down memory lane.
These shops bring back all of the nostalgia and rich culture that come along with the history of LA. Which place would you like to visit the most? We’d love to hear if you’ve ever been to any of these locations and your thoughts on them!
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Featured Addresses
315 E 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
Pink's Hot Dogs, 709 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038, USA
969 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
2724 East Cesar E Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
6333 W 3rd St #720, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA