Exploring the Vibrant Neighborhood of Little India in Artesia
Los Angeles County is a cultural mosaic, with long-established ethnic neighborhoods that reflect its diversity. From the bustling streets of Little Armenia to the historic charm of Little Tokyo, each community offers a unique glimpse into different cultures. Among these, one lesser-known but equally vibrant area is Little India in Artesia. Nestled on Pioneer Boulevard, primarily between 183rd and 188th streets, this enclave is a walkable melting pot filled with authentic flavors and colorful shops. Though India is thousands of miles away, visitors can still immerse themselves in South Asian culture right here in Southern California.
The segment of Pioneer Boulevard that houses Little India is lined with palm trees and unassuming storefronts. These shops include eateries, boutiques, and markets, each offering a taste of Indian culture. Inside, the vivid and often fragrant interiors transport visitors far from the suburban city of Los Angeles County. Established in the 1980s, Little India has faced several challenges over the years, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and pushback from locals who opposed the use of “Little India” signs on the nearby 91 Freeway, arguing that it didn’t fully represent Artesia’s multicultural makeup, which includes residents from other Asian countries and a predominantly Hispanic population.
Despite these obstacles, Little India has continued to thrive, offering a unique experience for those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine and customs. Located just next to Cerritos, Artesia is a little over 30 minutes away from downtown Los Angeles and Los Angeles International Airport. Many establishments have their own parking, but street parking is also available. A paid lot sits at 186th Street and Corby Avenue, just a few feet away from Pioneer Boulevard.
Must-Try Eateries in Little India
When visiting Little India in Artesia, the first priority is enjoying a meal. Pioneer Boulevard is home to numerous eateries, but a few stand out as must-visit spots. One such place is Rajdhani, a vegetarian restaurant that serves Gujarati fare thali-style. Diners are provided with a silver platter holding an assortment of dishes, including roti (flatbread), rajma (a bean curry), and more. This allows visitors to sample a variety of Indian dishes, making it an excellent choice for those new to the cuisine.
Rajdhani is closed on Mondays, and dinner is only served on weekends. It has been named one of the best Indian restaurants in Little India by Eater Los Angeles and The Infatuation. Another notable spot is Bhookhe, a Rajasthani eatery covered by the Los Angeles Times. Like Rajdhani, Bhookhe offers vegetarian thali-style meals, with a highlight being the Sartaj Thali, which features kadahi paneer, a cheese dish, paired with rice, green chutney, a samosa, and other sides.
While not as widely recognized as Rajdhani and Bhookhe, Curry Lounge is ranked as the top Indian restaurant in Artesia on Yelp. With a 4.7 rating on the platform and a 4.8 on Google, it specializes in Punjabi fare. Its comprehensive menu includes dishes like butter chicken (highly recommended by Yelp users), tandoori chicken, and a wide array of curries.
More Than Just Food: Exploring Local Businesses
After a satisfying meal, visitors may find themselves craving something sweet or looking for souvenirs to take home. Ambala Sweets & Snacks offers a variety of confections, including petha, a white pumpkin candy, and pista barfi, a pistachio-based sweet with a fudge-like consistency. For those interested in cooking, Pioneer Cash & Carry is an Indian grocery store stocked with spices and imported packaged products. Founded in Artesia, the market has two locations in Little India, including one conveniently located next to Curry Lounge.
Beyond food, Little India is also a destination for traditional South Asian clothing, especially for weddings and special occasions. Loveleen Sari Palace is a size-inclusive shop known for its richly colored garments. Reviews on Yelp and Google praise the exceptional customer service, with one user noting, “The customer service was absolutely incredible, the staff went above and beyond to guide me as a first-time buyer who was a little out of my depth.” Loveleen Sari Palace is closed on Mondays.
For costume jewelry, henna, and other sundries, Bollywood Music & Gifts is a great stop. Closed on Mondays, its vibrant aisles are sure to draw in visitors. If you enjoyed this story about Artesia’s Little India, consider exploring the neighboring city of Bellflower, a cultural hotspot with global cuisine, open-air dining, and shaded parks.
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