Did you know that the OC Fairgrounds is hosting a recurring OC Night Market this summer? 626 productions has brought one of my favorite foodie events to Orange County and our family couldn’t be more thrilled about that.
Well, I could be a *little* more thrilled if I had fewer food allergies and I could eat all the things I’m dying to try. But even looking and smelling and taking photos of the gorgeous fried squid on a stick, is enough to make my heart, if not my belly, feel full.
What’s a Night Market?
Oh… Let me show you. The Night Market is where gourmet food meets the county fair fryfest, meets the swap meet. There’s fresh waffle cones shaped like fishes and a stall where you can buy the latest greatest cell phone case or some super cute tiny succulent plants. You’ll see haute cuisine pressed up next to pork rinds, with a side of street performer, visiting indie artist and kid with bubble guns.
Plus there’s food trucks, an abundance of squid, and lots of food on sticks.
The first time I ever went to an Asian themed night market was in Richmond, outside Vancouver BC. I still find myself dreaming about the food there. It’s one of the biggest and best in North America. A tough act to follow!
The OC version is definitely smaller than the Richmond market. but there is still a great variety of food stalls, and food trucks to tempt you. Most of the food is either novelty American fare, or Asian inspired. Squid balls and blow torched grilled lobster. Rainbow grilled cheese. Steamed buns and curries. Milk teas and shaved ice. 20 different types of lemonade in different sorts of blinking light up containers, so you can still see the fresh herbs and raspberries in your drink, even after the sun sets.
We also saw sushi served in plastic boats, spiral cut fried potatoes in a dozen flavors and d-cakes shaped like a… well you can imagine.
My happy foodie kids slurped their Udon, and squished their squishy steamed buns and pondered why anyone would chose a burger and fries over the foodie feast that surrounded them.
Then we did a little shopping.
It was a good night.
The Night Market will be back in August 26-28. Visit 626 Productions for more info.
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