Marukai Market West LA — Attraction in Los Angeles

I've been coming to this market since 2020, l've always had a great time coming here, with great selections, however today, I came in again, with my service dog as always, and was denied to come in by a security guard named Rafa who clearly is unaware of anything. We walk in and standing at the door, he tells me I'm not allowed in unless it's a service dog. Mind you, he was extremely rude about it, borderline yelling at me in the store... I assure him it's a service dog, my dog is well trained and respectful, and he says "I can't let your dog in because he can smell the food". What does that even mean? I can smell the food too... I explain again that he told me service dogs are allowed, and there's a sign outside that allows them as well, and this is my right for my health and safety. He proceeds to continue raising his voice at me, telling me to get out. I was extremely respectful in the situation trying to educate him on the matter as he seemed unaware what a service dog is even though he told me they're allowed, and refused to listen. My dog laid down, and he then accused me of not controlling my dog... what? I didn't even get three feet into the store before he kicked us out for no reason other than I had a well trained service animal with me. The manager came out to speak with me after waiting for at least 10 minutes, and he rudely asked what my disability is since I guess you have to look disabled to be disabled in their opinion, which again, I found incredibly disrespectful. I'm extremely disappointed in how they handled the situation and I highly doubt I'll be coming back here, unfortunately, if they hire people who are so hateful with no regard. I really hope in the future they hire educated and...

​I love this market! Ive been focusing on a healthier diet lately and this place has become my essential stop for a lot of ingredients. I visited on a Tuesday and loved how quiet and calm the atmosphere was. Everything is well-organized. When I couldn't locate an item, a staff member was immediately available, incredibly nice, and knew exactly where it was. I really appreciate that most products are in English, which is a huge help when exploring new ingredients.

​Using the selection here for my meal prepping has been a game-changer. By focusing on the fresh fish and Asian vegetables (like baby bok choy and green peas), I've been able to maintain a calorie deficit and have personally lost over 25 lbs. This market makes finding essential, high-quality, and flavorful items for a healthy diet easy and exciting.

I love using AI to research new ingredients or cooking methods I find here to make sure I'm using them traditionally and getting the most flavor. Since I bike here, I avoid most of the local congestion, but car drivers should be aware of the heavy traffic in the area (near Santa Monica College).

​Overall it’s a calm, well-stocked, and essential market for anyone interested in Japanese food, whether you're a seasoned chef or on a health and fitness journey like me. I always find something new and...

Usually, I go to one of the locations in Little Tokyo since I live closer to those locations, but decided to stop by this location since it is on the way to work in Palisades. My onigiri and okonomiyaki cravings were finally satisfied after several years lol! I live close to Little Tokyo but don't always have time to stop over that way, plus parking can be a nightmare in that area. It's great if you don't have a car to worry about, and I used to go there a lot when I didn't have one. Here at West LA parking is free and plentiful, albeit a little cramped. If you can't find surface parking (located behind the store), you can still find more parking in the underground lot, there are signs that will point you in the right direction. I was able to get parking in the back lot, so didn't need to venture underground on this haul.

Anyway, the store is clean and cozy and the staff are also friendly. I'll def be back by again soon for more goodies. Also, shopping here is like getting a small taste of the famed Don Quijote in Japan since Marukai is owned by Don Quijote! The reusable grocery bag I received has the Don Quijote Penguin character on it! So cute!

Btw, I leave for Japan in less than 4 months! So exciting!...