This Lunar New Year Night Market Celebrates LA’s Best Under-Represented Restaurants
MAMA, the media outlet dedicated to preserving immigrant culture and highlighting the diverse cuisines its represents, returns to Los Angeles to gear up for MAMA’s NIGHTMARKET: “YEAR OF DRAGON” Presented by Honda on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Central Plaza in Chinatown. The event promises an immersive celebration of Lunar New Year traditions, unique culinary experiences, and a highlight of the city’s best under-represented restaurants.
From 6pm to 12am, Central Plaza will undergo a transformation into a vibrant Lunar New Year celebration, offering a myriad of experiences, including DJ performances, dance floors, martial arts demonstrations, a Lion Dance Show, karaoke, and an exclusive merch area.
One of the highlights is the diverse culinary offerings from over 20 vendors representing establishments from various LA neighborhoods. Notably, LA favorite and recently shuttered, Pearl River Deli, will participate, using the event for their final service.
“It’s really a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience a Year of Dragon celebration in the heart of Chinatown, with restaurants that don’t typically pop-up outside of their brick-and-mortar locations. For many of the restaurants, we actually hire staff to help them set up and vend,” states Jared Jue, founder of MAMA’s NIGHTMARKET.
Folks can look forward to dining from a delectable lineup of multi-cultural deliciousness: Tea Leaf Salad from Yoma Myanmar, Raw Crab from Soban, High Octane Seafood Dobin Chowder Soup from The Brothers Sushi, and more.
Proceeds from the event support the Bruce Lee Foundation’s mission, including Camp Bruce Lee for kids, scholarships, and collaborations fostering cultural bridges. Additionally, the event partners with Respect Your Elders, a nonprofit focused on feeding seniors in minority communities while supporting local restaurants.
Tickets are available for purchase here, with options starting at $35 for General Admission and $99 for VIP, which includes access to an open bar, preferred entrance, and bathrooms.
