We are excited to kick off Women's History Month by telling you about some of the impressive women who shaped the Market into what it is today. Women's leadership at Third and Fairfax goes all the way back to 1934, when Blanche Magee first brought some nifty sandwiches to farmers parked on the lot. Blanche thought farmers selling their produce and other wares might be hungry at lunchtime, so she packed a picnic basket full of delicious roast sandwiches and sides. It was such a hit that Blanche and her family soon opened Magee's Kitchen and Magee's House of Nuts and she became one of the matriarchs of the Market. Both businesses are still mainstays and still use many of Blanche's original recipes! Blanche is also credited with developing the very popular mixed nuts concept that is still enjoyed today.

Fast forward to 2025 and many inspiring women are still leading a large number of businesses at the Market. 

Frances Tario is the owner of Du-par's Restaurant and Bakery. She began working for the company alongside original owner, Biff Naylor in 2004 and was presented with the opportunity to buy the business in 2018.  

Maria Brown owner of The Salad Bar, is celebrating 40 plus years of working at the Market. Her healthy eatery is famous for its fresh salads, soups, sandwiches, and a variety of nutritious and tasty smoothie options.

Lilian Sears has one of the most moving stories at the Market. Lilian picked coffee beans as a youth in her native El Salvador. After moving to LA at age 17, her first job was at Coffee Corner. She bought the stall in 1994 and now sells delicious cups of coffee and espresso alongside her family.

Light My Fire is owned by South Korea native, Young Min. Light My Fire, established in 1996, was one of the first stores of its kind dedicated solely to hot sauces and two decades later it remains one of the most popular shops at the Market.  

Magic Nut and Candy Company is owned by Tess Villarta, a native of the Philippines. She purchased the business in 2009, after working there for years as an employee. They are still churning out handmade confections daily, including those amazing candy apples. 

Patsy's Pizza was established in 1949 and is LA's first pizzeria. Filomena D'Amore is at the helm of the business her father, Patsy, created. Patsy's Pizza was a favorite of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and other Hollywood celebrities. Filomena took over the business in 1998. Prior to that her mom, Rose, also helped run the business after Patsy passed away.

Charlie's Coffee Shop opened in 1975 and is currently owned and operated by Katie Gilbert, daughter of original owner Charlie Gilbert. Katie is still serving up the same great burgers, French Toast and grilled cheese that her mom was known for. She is often seen working alongside her daughter, Haley.

This is just a snapshot of some of the amazing stories and women in the Farmers Market family! Sticker Planet, Kip's Toyland, Weiss Jewelry, By Candlelight, Local Ice, T&Y Bakery, Marcel Gourmet Market, Singapore's Banana Leaf, Mediterranean Market, Gone Bananas, Stara, Figure 8 Boba and El Granjero Cantina are among the other businesses with women at the helm. We are overjoyed to celebrate them this March.