La Tropicana Market

On the Grid : Monte 52 @ La Tropicana Market

"Tucked away in the back of La Tropicana market is a hearty deli that serves a simple menu of sandwhiches done really well. When you come here you're greeted by a wonderful selection of produce, a great aisle filled with crafty sodas, a large selection of wine and craft beer, good coffee and there's even a vegan/vegetarian fridge!" - Friend of a Friend

View Postcard for The Tropicana Market

"Monte 52 @ La Tropicana Market, Highland Park. Tucked away in the back of La Tropicana market is a hearty deli that serves a simple menu of sandwhiches done really well. When you come here you're greeted by a wonderful selection of produce, a great aisle filled with crafty sodas, a large selection of wine and craft beer, good coffee and there's even a vegan/vegetarian fridge!"

Los Angeles

Inglewood Brewery Launches $100K Grant to Support Black-Owned Craft Beer - Eater LA

"Highland Park’s Monte 52 has closed. A glance at Monte 52’s Instagram feed over the last few months reveals that the popular food counter has, characterized in one post, “hanging on by a sad thread.” The restaurant opened nearly eight years ago in back of La Tropicana Market on the corner of Avenue 52 and Monte Vista." - Mona Holmes

The Best Dishes Eater LA Editors Ate This Week - Eater LA

"This compact kitchen cranks out stellar fried chicken sandwiches, house made soups, salads, and a breakfast burrito. Monte 52’s breakfast burrito adds all the expected elements, save for a few unanticipated ones like roasted and cubed potatoes, a chipotle sour cream, and a cheese sauce. It’s creamy and wonderfully rich, with flavor that fulfils on any day of the week." - Eater Staff

Shane Schaetz

Google

What a cool place. I'm jealous of those that live nearby. It's a highly curated "grocery" store that's a few steps up from someone's hobby business (I mean that in a good way). Prices are very fair, but the quality is high.

Bill B

Google

Fantastic community store and now they offer Sushi. The burritos are outstanding.

Paul Morrell

Google

I went to the sandwich shop in the back of the market (Ziv, reviewed separately) and was quite pleased to peruse the market while I waited the 20 min for my sandwiches order. This market is consise but impressive! I bought a couple drinks from one of the fridges and a promising bag of coffee for now, but there are so many cool finds. Basically I can see and feel that they get it and know. If 90% of options are all quality great finds you've tried before, it tends to suggest you ought to try the ones you have not. Somewhere else I might think it's just the less good options, but this place doesn't seem to have any less good options. Many items don't have prices displayed, but honestly this is more like a shopping date with yourself ; ) That being said, I did not try the smoothie coffee bar on the left wall and am scared I might enjoy it too much given the prices. Yikes, just yikes. Maybe I'll take more picture next time. Really everything is worthy.

Isabel Rendon

Google

Love this place! Not just a market. An appealing and welcoming environment with plenty of places to sit and relax. Enjoy a fresh juice or coffee then do some grocerie shopping on the way out. Penty of healthy food and produce options and a good selection of wine. The staff is amazing!

Syrena Diaz

Google

Got there an hour and ten minutes before they closed on Sunday and the lady working there said the juice bar area closed at seven so I guess I got there 20 minutes too late. It would be nice to know that the kombucha bar area closes an hour and thirty minutes before the store does. It doesn’t say it anywhere on the website, yelp or google. So maybe i can try it next time

Sam Rosenzweig

Google

Nice people, nice produce, nice products. Some great prepared food options as well. The juice bar is also a highlight.

Alexander Petrunin

Google

Great drinks. And you can also drink coffee with pastries and have a delicious meal. Friendly staff. Take a look, you won't regret it. I recommend.

Andrea Holmes

Google

Love this place! Live in the area and come and get a coffee on the regular. Everyone who works there is so nice and I love that you can sit outside and enjoy your coffee. I also love their tapioca bowls they make daily and they are a really great price. Yes some of the items are pricey but it’s a small shop so I’m not surprised. But also it’s not ridiculous given how much they have in stock. Love it!

Heather B.

Yelp

My neighborhood local market. It's always helpful to have nearby in a pinch for grocery items, organic produce, some gluten-free options, beer/wine, snacks and a nice coffee/smoothie bar! I also like supporting woman owned, local small businesses so I keep this market on my go-to list. Bodegas are always a little pricier, but you are paying for the convenience. This place kept me afloat during the pandemic as I was placing full orders with them when on lockdown. Thanks Rayna and co! Friendly service.

Richard O.

Yelp

This is a cool hipster market. They have burritos lapalma inside the market. They have items that other stores don't. Like unique brands of soda and canned iced coffee.

Pete B.

Yelp

I love La Tropicana! I've been coming here for years. At times you do have to laugh at the prices, but they carry a wide variety of niche products I probably wouldn't have found elsewhere (looking @ you, maple peanut butter). If you see a cinnamon roll in the bakery case with the DARK cinnamon, do yourself a favor and get two - delicious.

Lovella A.

Yelp

La Tropicana is kinda local, kinda hip and has almost everything that you may possibly need! I initially came here to try out their kombucha bar but to my surprise they had things you typically get on your grocery store runs and more - all quality products too from organic, natural to local brands. They also offer sandwiches, craft beers, acai bowls, coffee, etc. It's definitely a one stop shop whether you're a local or passing by the neighborhood!

Eduardo A.

Yelp

I love them! I stop there a few times a week, every week. For coffee, for a croissant, for special flour, for açaí, fruits... they have everything. And everyone is nice:)

Ingrid L.

Yelp

This place is adorable. A great option for juices, smoothies, and sandwiches. Dropped by here on my way to Pasadena. The juice menu is simple and you have a couple of smoothie options. There were 3-4 acai bowl options too. I got the tropical acai bowl ($11.99) with orange juice, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, coconut, and granola. The first thing I noticed was how big the bowl was! Unlike your west LA acai bowls that come in these tiny plastic cups, this came in a big bowl. I like granola on my bowls for the crunch but this particular bowl I got was like half granola! I ended up having to brush half of it off because it was just too much. The grocery part was great too. Lots of more obscure healthy options! The deli looked awesome. I saw someone get a veggie sandwich which seemed packed full of avocado and sprouts and I want to try that next time!

Matthew P.

Yelp

Clean, high quality products but it could use a little more variety in the Latin products section. You are in highland park of course lol

Marisol D.

Yelp

Nice lil market with a selection of nifty products. They also have fresh juice like vampiros.

Megan S.

Yelp

Can't say enough positive things about La Tropicana, I've been coming here for years! Rana is warm and welcoming and really invested in her community and her customers. She wants to get to know you! The coffee and juices are awesome, and the back food area always serves something delicious, even if the name changes (they've had a few diff restaurants back there over the years). They have fresh produce, good pantry and household items, a nice wine and beer selection, and is perfect for whenever I need to grab something quickly. I'm writing this review now because another business opened up down the street (Carla's Fresh Market) and I don't want La Tropicana to get overshadowed. The new market is overpriced and catering to the new hip HLP residents, and basically offering what La Tropicana already is - but with a higher price tag and less selection. La Tropicana feels accessible to EVERYONE in the HLP neighborhood and you can see that from what they stock, who they employ, and their prices. 10/10.

Julie M.

Yelp

Why have I been making multiple trips to diff groceries when I could just come here! There is produce, there are household goods, cheeses and milk alternatives - this is great! I love that this place has LatinX workers as it is Highland Park and many folks are moving out or being pushed out ! So I will def support. I purchased the Breakfast burrito and I loved it! There are vegan options too.

Gerry B.

Yelp

They have Triple X root beer and Later Days. 2 of my favorite drinks ever. Plus there's food, juices and a wide variety of other amazing.

Jessica H.

Yelp

Great small family owned market. They have delicious hot food options from las palma, fresh juice and coffee, baked goods, produce, tons of specialty drinks in the fridge, and kitchen staples.

Cole F.

Yelp

Happened upon this market by accident and part of me is truly happy that I did! It is the closest thing I've seen to a bodega in Los Angeles. It has a lot of unique but practical groceries and products, fresh produce as well as a coffee/juice/smoothie bar and deli! What more could you ask for? The reason I'm not giving it 5 stars is because for one it took a while for someone to notice me waiting to order even though there were 4 people behind the counter. I've been in their position before and you at least should say I will get to you in a moment, just say something! When I was helped I ordered the classic acai bowl but was told it wouldn't be ready to eat for 20-30 minutes because the acai is frozen...then why have it on your menu? It was explained that if I got the protein acai bowl it would be ready to eat so I did that even though it was $2 more. The fruit and granola part of the bowl were delicious but the main ingredient, the acai, was absolutely foul. For some reason it was dark gray...I thought I would be getting acai + almond butter but it didn't look nor taste like it. I've had plenty of different acai bowls and this one was the absolute worst. I'm super considerate about where I spend my money these days because times are tough! I wanted to support a local business but I don't know if I will be back anytime soon. I'm super bummed :/

Brian S.

Yelp

Love this place! Our family has been shopping here for a long time. Yes some things can be a little pricey but we're paying for convenience and almost always great quality. Great burrito place in the back that has outrageous tortillas. I'm not sure what's up with the other place two blocks away that seems like it's trying to be La Tropicana. Also, the most amazing cookies!

Larry N.

Yelp

A great neighborhood market, that has a pretty decent grocery selection, a great craft beer and wine selection, great selection of fresh produce, a meat counter, plus a coffee & juice bar.

Crista R.

Yelp

Mom and pop grocery, juicebar, coffee, and deli. They have a small curated selection of grocery items and somehow everything you would want. Really quality brands. They sell a great variety of alcohol too. Lots of vegan options, great produce and the people are so nice that work here. It's an impressive little spot and I couldn't recommend it more.

Trisha M.

Yelp

Love love love this little corner market they boba, pastries, plants base food, fresh veggies, dog treats oh and the tea selection is amazing.... If you're in the area pop in and support this woman owned store.

Ted C.

Yelp

I was staying in HP for a minute and saw that La Tropicana had a light of high marks for sandwiches and found that it's the home of Monte 52 (separate review for that.) So when I walked in and ordered I saw they had a really big, brightly covered coffee/smoothie bar and kombucha on tap. I'm a sucker for kombucha so I figured it would be a good drink to have. I got to sample a bit of everything and settled on the Pink Lady Basil, it was tart and a little sweet which I look for in a kombucha. It tasted so good I assumed it was made in house like so many of their items here. I was surprised to find it wasn't but from GT's. I've had GT kombucha before and thought it was just ok but having it on tap is a game changer. It's a spruced up bodega, in the best way possible. You can get all your basics still but if you wanted something a little fancier you don't have to go all the way to some specialty store or Whole Foods.

Raymond R.

Yelp

"Great sandwiches anyone"? Yes why not.! So i work in Alhambra about 10 mins away from Highland Park and this lovely little spot. I was thinking of having a sandwhich for lunch so i remembered about La Tropicana Market. A hidden Gem. This market has just about everything under one roof. Monte 52 is a Gourmet Sandwiches and deli. They have a ice cream shop in side. Coffee And kombucha on tap. Along with all nice fresh produce, an arrangement of drink including ones with CBD "for all you Hipsters out there". A whole lot more items are there. "So about the sandwhich." I orderd the tuna sandawhich which was only 8 bucks and it was on the delicious wheat bread that was toasted on the grill, it came with tomato and arugula. Sounds simple but it is a very tasty sandwich indeed. If you get the chance to check this place out i highly suggest it. Dog friendly Hip spot Parking on the street Local market Evrything you need.

Debbie M.

Yelp

Okay my daughter told us about this place. A high school classmate owns it. We tried the turkey and the brisket sandwiches! I must say this is a must try place. I didn't post picture of the turkey because my husband devoured it too fast. We look forward to trying out more sandwiches and the smoothies. Enjoy!!!! Thank you Rachel for the recommendation.

Mikhaela R.

Yelp

Love this place ! Great selection of beverages and home supplies. Even Pet food ! The employees are very friendly. I haven't tried the kombucha bar or coffee bar yet but it looks yummy

Milena C.

Yelp

Being a first-time visitor to La Tropicana Market, I felt unwelcome. I ordered an açai bowl and was given two plastic containers to make the bowl myself after waiting 20 minutes because they were out of bowls and spoons. The young lady made no apology or informed me ahead of time that she didn't have certain products in store, so she could allow me to choose another item.

Laura M.

Yelp

Coffee is was almost 4 dollars and it wasn't even hot. It was warm. Had an old and sour taste to it. Even the powder or milk they added did t dissolve because it wasn't hot...

Saori 134 R.

Yelp

My first time here at la Tropicana market I am very satisfied with the customer service they offer me very friendly They have very delicious pastries and smoothies Thank you very much for everything Definitely will come back

Chen Z.

Yelp

Beautiful little Market with Fresh Organic Products But the main attraction here are the Juice/coffee Bar and The Sandwich Counter. Juice Bar - Fresh Smoothies and Juices, I had The Pomegranate Fresh Squeezed juice and Morning Glory Neon Smoothie , Both were nothing but Excellent, and Healthy I Think They also have a Kombucha Bar. There are many Coffee and Lattes options too but i didn't try, I'm not a Coffee fan , But the Hot drinks looked and smelled Good There is a Sandwich Counter, Sandwiches and Burritos are made to order with Love. Price: Sandwiches around $9.00 and Smoothies $5-$7 Depends on the Size, Yes in that case size matter Small Tables outside on the sidewalk or inside by the Bar The Staff are Super friendly Street Parking in front of the store and nearby Streets Try it if you're in the area

Keith M.

Yelp

Love this place. It's my neighborhood go-to shop. Before COVID, I was there nearly every Friday for my lunch from Monte52 and grocery shopping. I've shopped online a couple of times for delivery or pickup.

Jazmin V.

Yelp

I loooooooove this placee!! I normally come here for their Juice Bar but I need to come more often to shop around. Service is always friendly here & I absolutely adore that! Never disappointed. Love you, guys!

Jesse B.

Yelp

This spot didn't impress. The staff was very friendly and kind, but the smoothie I got (morning glory), which the cashier said was the best one, was watery and warm. Maybe it would be better with ice or if the fruit was frozen or refrigerated? The lid was also too big for the cup and didn't fit right so every time I took a sip it would drip on my clothes. I think with a little extra love the smoothies could improve! Also I thought it was cool that they had fresh fruit on display, I got closer and realized it was plastic. Pretty tacky. But once again, the staff was great. The young male cashier in particular.

Michael F.

Yelp

Was feeling low so I ordered two of the fruit salad bowls. Wow was I impressed with the quality of the fruit assortment! Everything was super fresh, the banana slices, the generous amount of strawberries and blueberries, the granola and shredded coconut on top. Plus, the icy berry "coulis" to keep the bowl cold and super-fresh. Each BIG Bowl makes an easily digestible meal. I bought three-ate one each day for three days because I'd been Ill all summer with a sluggish system from eating fast-food. What a difference to your health and energy level three bowls gives you! I will definitely be buying fresh meals from La Tropicana Market in the future.

Mac S.

Yelp

Cool little local hipster specialty market. I ended up checking the place out during a first visit to Monte 52 (which is a awesome place to eat... and they should show their sign more prominently in my opinion), and liked it. You can get fresh foods, sandwiches (and Monte 52), neat selections of wines, and even icecreams, coffee and health drinks there. Great community place in Highland Park. I'd recommend it to others.

Samantha Rose T.

Yelp

Great selection of sandwiches! It's our first time ordering within the La Tropicana and the staff was super friendly! Not to mention that the burritos and the tuna sandwich we ordered matched up to the high remarks we have heard about this place.

Samuel S.

Yelp

Great food, kind people. One of my favorite places in highland park. The owners take a lot of pride in their shop. Thank you la Tropicana

Brooke K.

Yelp

I ordered their affogato and the lady working behind the counter had no idea what I was talking about (even though it was clearly on the menu board behind her with the ingredients listed below). The espresso shot was really bitter and the ice cream was really thick. My boyfriend ordered their açaí bowl, which was $10. Good sized bowl; however, 3/4 of the bowl was just toppings and granola. There was a small amount of açaí at the bottom and it was basically frozen. It seems like they use pre-packaged açaí bowls and just cut up their own toppings.

Andres C.

Yelp

I am a frequent customer of the market, cafe and kitchen. Everything is top quality and what makes coming to La Tropicana are the amazing folks. Hands down the folks making coffee, smoothies and the food have the BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED. They take the time to ask about you, follow up on conversation points, and remember your drink choices. That added detail makes me feel like home when I come and shop, eat and drink here. Come and visit, let's support our local businesses

Isaac G.

Yelp

This market is very special. It's a cross between a cafe, sub shop, supermarket, and bodega. It has a great selection for such a small store. Here you get very friendly personal service. I called the other day asking if they have Fennel bulbs. Someone picked up immediately and told me they did, and they did! Good luck with this kind of interaction at Vons. La Tropicana also is very careful about COVID. This is a store you should support and is extremely convenient if you live in the western Highland Park area.

Mandy B.

Yelp

This place is fantastic, especially during this crisis. I loved it before when you could walk in and experience the little bodega, but I still love being able to get m favorite products and support this small business during the quarantine. They have everything from Cheetos to fancy organic, vegan, gluten free stuff. We can't wait to go back inside when the world is less scary but doing curb side pickup will do for now!

Isabel R.

Yelp

Rachel C.

Yelp

I love this place! Not only do they carry alot of merchandise, groceries, beer&wine that is hard to find locally but they also have a great selection of fruits and veggies. The vibe in there is super warm and friendly and neighborhoody. I live and work in the neighborhood and i always bring my friends when they come from out town, also frequent the market as well as the cafe on my own. Thank you guys!

Randy L.

Yelp

What a fantastic boutique market with a nice selection of great products and produce. Whoever the buyer is has great taste! Also worth mentioning there's an excellent coffee bar, kombucha bar and a sandwich shop in market.

Jennifer H.

Yelp

My to go local market. They have pretty much everything you're looking for plus the juice bar is one of the best in town. You can order for pick up or have them delivered through LocalExpress.

Frank A.

Yelp

I wish there were markets like this in every neighborhood. Best deli sandwiches at Monte 52 (which should be open later btw) Little fruit treats. Juices. Ice cream. The best beverage selection in the cold cooler. Best chips. Best. Best. Best!

Joseth A.

Yelp

This place has fresh produce, specialty items, amazing burritos, bomb coffee and great customer service!

Danielle E.

Yelp

Great staff and very friendly service! The owner provided coloring book and crayons to our daughter while we were eating and it made her day! We will definitely recommend to others and we will be back !

AJ P.

Yelp

Chill market to grab some quick items. Sandwich & cafe inside too. They sell beer & wine just notify the cashier you'd like to purchase beer & they'll unlock it for you. ATM located inside as well.

Martin W.

Yelp

I just returned from my first visit to Tropicana since the beginning of the pandemic. I found the market safe, well stocked, and very welcoming. I mean, really, could there be anyone more capable, friendly, and lovely than Rana? Well worth my drive from Santa Monica - yes, it's that good. Marty

Jasmin B.

Yelp

Delicious drinks and they make them very fast. Fresh Smoothies & juices well priced. All other Products priced too high.

Lawren S.

Yelp

Great neighborhood spot , our own little bodega Great juices ! We also love Monte 52 inside the market they have some amazing sandwiches and breakfast burritos

Matt K.

Yelp

No consistency. Last two times the açaí bowls were good, today it took longer to make than our breakfast burritos and ended up being juice in a bowl. I can only assume they forgot about it hence why it was all melted. Service this time was also subpar. Hopefully they pick it up in the near future.

Taylor l.

Yelp

They should call this the 6$ Store. Pretty much everything in here is 6$. You try to get a canned drink and a snack and you end up walking out paying 15$ after tax

On the Grid : Monte 52 @ La Tropicana Market

View Postcard for The Tropicana Market

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