Exotic citrus in Southern California?

February 1, 2009 5:10 PM

What are the best places to get exotic citrus in Southern California? The catch is that this has to happen Monday or Tuesday.

I'm in town for a few days and would like to get my hand on some good, interesting citrus fruit. Meyer lemons would be great for a start, but the more unusual the better really. If "unusual" doesn't work out, then tips on top-quality local citrus in general would be appreciated.

Ordinarily I might head to the Santa Monica farmers market, but I'm leaving early Wednesday morning, so I need some options for Monday or Tuesday.

I'm in Riverside, but quite willing to travel.

posted by veggieboy to food & drink (6 comments total)

Farmers markets seem like the best bet. Here's
the list.
posted by drmarcj at 5:21 PM on February 1

A1 market in Echo Park used to have a nice selection of asian produce.

A Grocery Warehouse
1489 West Sunset Blvd.
LA - #213.250-1446

I've eaten many a lychee from there.
posted by mrmojoflying at 6:38 PM on February 1

Check out CalPoly Pomona's Farm Store:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/dailydish/2008/04/farm-store-at-c.html

It's much closer to Riverside than LA
posted by buggzzee23 at 7:05 PM on February 1

There are Farmers markets every day of the week in L.A.; I think this is an accurate list. Pretty much the same farms make the circuit. Good luck!
posted by jabberjaw at 11:45 PM on February 1

Give the University of California at Riverside's Department of Botany and Plant Biology a call at [phone]. UCR has some of the leading citrus researchers in the world, and run a citrus research station, as well as a botanical garden.
posted by mdonley at 12:51 AM on February 2

Oh hey, I'm in Riverside, too! I have it on good authority (read: my happy tastebuds) that the Trader Joe's in Riverside has a plentiful stock of meyer lemons.

If you find yourself in Orange County, definitely stop by Wholesome Choice Market in Irvine. Their produce section is incredible (and incredibly fresh!), and their prepared food section puts Whole Foods to shame.

I also suggest that you contact the California Rare Fruit Growers organization (located at Cal State Fullerton, which is about an hour away by car). I may even call them myself - I've been dying to get my hands on another sugar apple (pinha). If you come across one of those in the area, please MeMail me!
posted by numinous at 1:28 AM on February 2