Napa's Gott's Roadside Opens at LA Farmers Market

Before its expansion to Southern California, Gott's Roadside was a Northern California staple, with seven locations primarily in the San Francisco Bay Area. The family-owned restaurant group is known for its modern take on American roadside classics, offering items like hamburgers, Ahi tuna burgers, and hand-spun milkshakes. The journey began in 1999 when brothers Joel and Duncan Gott took over a 50-year-old burger shack in St. Helena called Taylor's Refresher. They reimagined it with a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, a concept that quickly gained a following among locals and wine country visitors. After a trademark dispute, the name was officially changed to Gott's Roadside in 2010. The new Los Angeles outpost is situated in a landmark with its own rich history. The Original Farmers Market first opened in July 1934, starting as a collection of farmers selling produce from their trucks. The land itself was originally a dairy farm in the 1880s before oil was discovered on the property. Over the decades, the market evolved from temporary stalls to a permanent fixture with over 100 vendors, including restaurants, grocers, and shops. It has been a popular spot for Hollywood stars throughout its history, with figures like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe frequenting the location. The addition of Gott's Roadside is part of the market's ongoing evolution. Gott's menu goes beyond typical roadside fare, featuring dishes like Ahi Poke Crispy Tacos and a Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich. The restaurant also emphasizes its beverage selection, offering a California-centric list of wines and beers. This culinary approach has earned Gott's a James Beard Award, recognizing it as an "America's Classic." The Los Angeles opening is a key part of the company's Southern California expansion plans. Another location is planned for Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica, indicating a strategic move to establish the brand beyond its Northern California roots.