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Who said Small Business Saturday has to be limited to once a year? We certainly don’t think so. From sidewalk pop-up shops to outdoor markets, the Valley’s got you covered if you’re looking to support your neighbors instead of, I don’t know, going to the mall. And, to be sure, you can have a lot of fun shopping small.

That’s because, from Topanga to Burbank, your neighbors are beaming with creativity. The Valley’s neighborhoods are each unique, so no two markets are ever the same. Read: With this list, you can have a new shopping experience every weekend of the year. 

Plus, some of these pop-ups and markets are highly creative, meaning you can expect visual art, dancing, and musical talent. Dates and locations vary, so make sure to check the event’s Instagram page for the most accurate updates.

Now, without further ado, keep reading to find 10 pop-up shops and outdoor markets to add to your San Fernando Valley social calendar.

10 pop-up shops and outdoor markets in the San Fernando Valley

1. Topanga Vintage Market

Where: Victory Blvd. and Mason Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91306
When: Fourth Sunday of every month, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

One of the oldest markets in the Valley, the Topanga Vintage Market celebrated its 10th anniversary this year (!!!). Head over bright and early for the most eclectic home and wardrobe finds. It costs $5 to enter, but you’re basically paying for a real-life treasure-hunting experience. And let’s be real, you’ll take every opportunity to say, “I thrifted it,” whenever someone asks you where you got that jacket (or couch, or lamp, or pillow).

https://www.instagram.com/p/CU3FyDrhC91/

2. Cafe Aficionado’s Pop-Ups

Where: 8904 Reseda Blvd., Northridge, CA 91324
When: Various weekends and times

This family-owned cafe is the definition of “community oriented.” Recognizing the struggles that their fellow small businesses faced during the pandemic, the owners of Cafe Aficionado formed Summer Night Series, which is 5-8:30 p.m. on Fridays, as well as Weekend Pop-Ups (on Saturday and Sunday mornings), providing affordable vendor spaces and much-needed community support. At the pop-up, you can find a variety of goodies, including plants, candles, apparel, baked goods, and more.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CTKl67Hlg_o/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

3. El Valle Pop-Ups

Where: 6300 Balboa Blvd., Encino, CA 91406
When: Dates vary, noon-4 p.m.

You might not be going to Lake Balboa to get shopping done, but keep an eye out for El Valle Pop-Ups near the Balboa Boulevard entrance for hand-crafted goods, houseplants, and more. You can also grab a treat from one of several food vendors before you pedal out to the lake on one of the park’s signature swan boats.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXu3kjWLqXW/

4. San Fernando Outdoor Market

Where: 911 San Fernando Road, San Fernando, CA 91340
When: Fourth Saturday of the month, 5-9 p.m.

If you’re looking to escape the Valley heat but still want to show small businesses love, head over to the San Fernando Outdoor Market. Taking over the block between Brand Boulevard and Maclay Avenue, the Valley’s namesake city comes alive on the fourth Saturday of every month, with over 80 vendors and storefronts combined and a classic car showcase as well as live performances and a makeshift dance floor.  

https://www.instagram.com/p/CR2XbNVrfjR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

5. Block Party Flea Market

Where: Saticoy Street and Louise Avenue
When: Dates vary, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Another place you can find an amazing community experience for free? The plaza that’s home to Valley staples like Needle Pushers, Galaxy of Comics, and Rose Garden Barbershop. Each event intentionally offers something a little different, but you can expect a few things every time, says the event’s Instagram bio: to “Shop local artists. Catch a groove. Make connections.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdtgYtxvLOu/

6. Teapop Art Market

Where: 5050 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood, CA 91601
When: First weekend of every month; October-June, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; July-September, 3-8 p.m. 

This tea and coffee shop (truly a neighborhood favorite) does it all: trivia, paint nights, and a monthly art market.  While Teapop already features a rotation of budding artists’ pieces each month, they’re providing even more opportunities for other artists and artisans to showcase their work on a monthly basis.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca0t4p8pogb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

7. Makers Market Chatsworth

Where: Locations vary
When: Dates vary

As its name gives away, this market is in the west Valley neighborhood of Chatsworth. There are always different vendors there, so you’ll find pretty much anything you can think of—and probably some stuff you wouldn’t even have dreamed. Make sure to check their Instagram to know when and where the market’s happening.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CVncONcpkiw/

8. Wallflower Market LA

Where: Locations vary
When: Dates vary

Local shopping for charity? Say less. Taking advantage of The 513’s al-fresco dining space in the heart of the NoHo Arts District, this woman-founded pop-up shop offers themed photoshoots for your furry friend, plant vendors, jewelry vendors, and more. Even better, a percentage of all vendor sales goes to a different progressive cause each month. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CbiXuAdP3V6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

9. 818 Pop-Up Shop

Where: Locations vary
When: Dates vary

A Latina-owned and operated business, 818 Pop-Up Shop is the self-proclaimed original pop-up in the San Fernando Valley. Its mission is simple: support local small businesses! Through Great Gatsby-themed New Year’s parties and Halloween spook-taculars, Genevieve Marie — the market’s founder — keeps the joy in her community.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdnyZ82LdlX/

10. Main Street Canoga Park Farmers Market

Where: 7247 Owensmouth Ave., Canoga Park, CA 91303
When: Every Saturday, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

You might be thinking that because its name features the terms “farmers” and “market” you can only get produce at this event. But you’d be mistaken! You can also get fresh flowers, like those photographed below, tamales, and even crafted items. Even if you’re East Valley-based, the Main Street Canoga Park Farmers Market is well worth the trek.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoD7guGFBGs/

With gas prices still through the roof ($5.99 last time we checked), Angelenos in the North Valley can relax knowing they no longer have to drive 20-plus miles to their favorite Cuban bakery. The Porto’s in Northridge is finally open—and located at 19467 Nordhoff St.

This location has been a long time coming, with the project being repeatedly delayed due to the pandemic. The original opening date was December 2020, which was later pushed to April 2021. Now, a year after the second opening date—and a lot of treks to Burbank later—their newest location has finally opened its doors.

But how does the community feel? In a word: elated.

Photo: Rebecah Jacobs

Prior to their opening at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, eager eaters started lining up as early as 4 a.m. to be one of the first to experience this monumental launch. In addition to the excitement over their own trips to this new location, a lot of locals are anticipating sharing the love with their non-Valley friends. “Porto’s is one of my favorite restaurants in the city,” says Carolina Matamoros of Reseda, adding that this is a dream come true for her. “Every time I have friends visiting from out of town, I have to take them there.”

Of course, there’s also a particular pride within the Valley’s Cuban community. “For as long as I can remember, 30 years to be exact, my family and I have been driving to Burbank and Downey to get our Cuban bakery fix,” explained Angela Díaz of Northridge, whose father was born in Havana, Cuba. “The pastries, the delicious sandwiches, and their signature drink, mamey, remind me of being back in my dad’s hometown. I’m so happy that Cuban culture [is in] my city. We need some Cuban flavor in the neighborhood.”

Photo: Rebecah Jacobs

Upon its grand opening on Tuesday, April 12, the Northridge location became the sixth Porto’s Bakery in Southern California—and the first in the North Valley. After getting its start in Glendale, the beloved Cuban bakery expanded to Burbank, Downey, Buena Park, and West Covina. 

Now, you can find cheese rolls, besitos, Cubanos, tres leches cake, and, of course, potato balls on the Northridge menu. Plus, there are some new treats exclusive to the north Valley location, including a sure-to-be-delicious strawberry pistachio tart.

Photo: Rebecah Jacobs

After such a long wait, it’s safe to say the community fully seized this moment. Nearly every person walking out had Black-Friday-sale-sized bags filled with pastries as they walked back to their cars. (If you’re gonna wait in line for two hours, you might as well stock up!)

Whether you were born and raised in Los Angeles or you googled “best food in LA,” Porto’s is a name that comes up again and again—and with good reason. Now, the Valley is part of that legacy. Don’t believe us? You don’t have to take just our word for it.

“From the moment we decided to call this amazing community our newest home, we knew this location was going to be special,” the bakery wrote on social media. “You welcomed us with open arms, you never missed a farmers market, and you waited patiently while we worked through unprecedented times to bring our family bakery to your neighborhood.”

The Valley’s a great place to live because of the diversity and integration we see daily. We see taco stands on the same corner as we see Black-owned eateries, which can be just across the street from a local coffee shop.

But to keep the Valley diverse, we have to invest support into our favorite BIPOC-owned businesses — whether that’s in dollars, nice messages, or social media follows.

Here’s a list of 15 AAPI-owned businesses led by San Fernando Valley natives.

1. VLY GRL

Valley girl Alisa Damaso founded VLY GRL to smash stereotypes about Valley girls through poetry and apparel, like the dope-ass pins below.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CJbpmurgRYX/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_na9sKgTT3/

2. Cafe Aficionado LA, Northridge

Yes, Cafe Aficionado has amazing ube lattes and delicious breakfast burritos — but, more importantly, Cafe Aficionado LA helps local small businesses by offering their storefront as a popup space.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMSRB6pDYr0/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CMkSbb8j6eO/

3. Ninong’s Dessert Lab

Best known for their ube pancakes, Ninong’s sadly had to close their cafe in November of 2020 but are still serving the community online and at monthly pop up events.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CLAGtmqL_mC/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CMoIKiQrP-F/

4. Luna Bake Shop, Arleta

Owner and head baker at Luna Bake Shop Nancy Pothidang offers homemade cookies in traditional flavors, nationwide shipping, and delivery. DM Luna Bake Shop on Instagram to order.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNG0bAiLFln/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CMdl10VLtd9/

5. Macra Made by Mel, Tarzana

The next time you’re looking for a chic basket, coaster, rug, or anything else macramé, hit up Mel Wald and she’ll bring your idea to life.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMNbiEuh5mR/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CHGY7MMB3NU/

6. Vinh Loi Tofu, Reseda

Here are two very impressive things about Vihn Loi Tofu: 1) Its menu is fully vegan and 2) The restaurant topped the list of Veg Out’s 10 Asian-Owned Vegan and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Across the US.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMvaFTTJZOA/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CNL2rQ1JUhD/

7. Brown Baked Desserts, Lake Balboa

The head baker at Brown Baked Desserts goes by “Chef Jason” and his mission is to “transform traditional Filipino dessert flavors into cookies and more.” He’s doing a damn good job if you ask us.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNRf6CML2aY/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CMqkgYirjOQ/

8. Rincome Thai Restaurant, Granada Hills

If you live in or near Granada Hills, you know that Rincome is the go-to Thai food spot. Their coconut shrimp soup is fire, as are their spicy noodles, as is their fried rice, as is… well, you get the point.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-LI0I-nTOb/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CFACaiFnF1m/

9. Wanderlust Creamery, Tarzana

The duo who owns all five Wanderlust locations — in Pasadena, Venice, Atwater Village, Tarzana, and Fairfax — are proud CSUN grads and have been featured on Thrillist, Eater LA, and Food Insider.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMPx1LLH9IZ/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BpHy5xfnzzv/

10. Bamboo Bistro, Panorama City

You really can’t go wrong when you order from or recommend Bamboo Bistro. The go-tos include pancit, steamed rice, and pork adobo. (Also, pre-panny, this was a very poppin’ karaoke spot. Just saying.)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAswCcngHQw/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CC1eUSQAgUS/

11. Nic’s Burgers and Bowls, Chatsworth

Seriously, words don’t and won’t do justice to Nic’s Burgers. The best we can say is: Go as soon as you can.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CKmEn4NjQ1i/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CNQ_nEcDnAj/

12. Clay Play & Arts, Northridge

Clay Play & Arts is a wonderful (and safe!) place to take your kids for some painting and pottery. Think Color Me Mine, except not corporate.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMvCt9BsPlz/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CI1rJYzHRMk/

13. House Roots, Granada Hills

This is my favorite local coffee shop and I won’t even try to hide it. It’s right down my house and supports social justice!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CL7TT0_g3yT/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B9SXPK0hyl4/

14. Sweet Snow, Northridge

Sweet Snow might be one of the most underrated dessert shops in the Valley. They have a good variety of desserts and an amazing assortment of ice cream flavors.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CABjyyuD0SH/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CKKrGm8DzWD/

15. Fork & Spoon, Cuisine from the Philippines, Woodland Hills

Fork & Spoon has been a destination spot in Woodland Hills ever since owner Paul Fuentes opened the doors in 2019.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAi0A_5gsYU/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B1jszaLAz_g/

By Diana Bonilla and Natalie Arroyo Camacho

The best thing we’ve learned this year is to invest our dollars in our community. There are so many creative, talented, and intelligent individuals in the Valley — so many of us pursuing our passions, building businesses, and purchasing homes here (to keep the gentrifiers out, of course).

Valley Gems creator Diana Bonilla collaborated with Viva the Valley to encourage us to put our money where it pays for our neighbors’ groceries and not for a millionaire’s third vacation home.

Shop these Valley businesses for all your holiday needs, and remember: You can always buy gift cards!

In this article:

Apparel and accessories

You know you want Valley-inspired merch by inspired Valley kids.

1. VLY GRL

2. ELE ERRE Design

3. PINetration®

4. Shop Trio

5. Mimster Shop

6. Valley Blossomed

7. Simple Threads

8. La Dolce Vintage

9. Queso con Loroco

10. Black and Moon Co.

11. Shop Chapilinda

12. Romina Swim

13. Hamsa Club

14. Sincerely Sweet Boutique

Bakeries

You know, in case you don’t want to make a cake or pie or bake at all.

15. Sugary and Salty Bakery

16. Lotus Bakery

17. Bossin Bakery

18. The Sweet Spot

19. For the Love of Dough

Barbershops

Get a cut or gift card for the person in your life who consistently has a fresh line-up.

20. Standard Barbershop

21. Rose Garden Barbershop

22. Left Hook Barbershop

23. C.A.P.S. Barbershop

24. Valley’s Finest Barber Lounge

Beauty

Who ever turned down a spa or spa-like treatment?

25. Tess Esthetics

26. Bangin’ Bebs

27. Yukionna Lashes

28. Brows by Killa Briii

29. PABL Gang

30. The Little Gem Studio

31. Wax Junkie

Breweries

Yummmm, beer.

32. San Fernando Brewing Company

33. MacLeod Ale Brewing Co.

34. 8one8 Brewing

https://www.instagram.com/p/CGGBVIDFwJG/

35. Hand-Brewed Beer

36. Cellador Ales

Home goods

Candles, plants, mugs, boutiques, and other aesthetic things…

37. Valley Girl Apothecary

38. NoHo Candle Co. and Studio

39. Siren Coast Candles

40. West-End Market

41. Eli Greenery

42. Brandon the Plant Guy

https://www.instagram.com/p/CJcwPPKDUvS/

43. Valley Girl Craft Co.

44. Sour Times Shop

Miscellaneous

From record stores to book stores and comic books to sneakers…

45. The Midnight Hour

46. Tía Chucha’s

47. Sneaker Hustle USA

48. We Can Be Heroes

49. Toy Mandala

50. Valley Relics Museum

RELATED: 10 Valley Coffee Shops Better Than Starbucks

We’ll just say it: we don’t like Starbucks. We don’t like their ethics, particularly that you can find more than one — and sometimes as many as two or three — Starbucks on a given Valley corner.

We much prefer to invest our dollars in our community, and there are some amazing coffee shops in the Valley. Read on to learn about 10 we especially love.

1. House Roots Coffee

Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, 1-6 p.m.
Address: 16155 San Fernando Mission Blvd., Granada Hills, CA 91344
How to order: Only online at houserootscoffee.com

House Roots Coffee is *chef’s kiss*. Aside from having delicious drinks, hip merch, and bomb food, this local coffee shop donates to the Armenia Fund and the Equal Justice Initiative. Our House Roots favorites include the lavender latte and the nitro coffee.

2. R Coffee House

R Coffee House has two locations:

Granada Hills
Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Addresses: 17808 Chatsworth St., Granada Hills, CA 91344
How to order: Over the phone by calling (818) 217-4982, in store, or online at rcoffeehouseinc.com/

Northridge
Hours of operation: Monday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Addresses: 9255 Reseda Blvd., Unit B, Northridge, CA 91324
How to order: Over the phone by calling (818) 600-6031, in store, or online at rcoffeehouseinc.com/

Since 2017, R Coffee House has been serving espresso, ice blended drinks, and artistic lattes along with waffles, wraps, and breakfast sandwiches — and that’s not even half of their menu. We’re not drooling, you’re drooling.

3. Black Heart Coffee

Hours of operation: Monday-Sunday, 6 a.m.-3 p.m.
Address: 7135 Balboa Blvd., Lake Balboa, CA 91406
How to order: In person or online at Chow Now

Black Heart Coffee Co. is the new kid on the block and one of the few good things to happen in 2020. Though the drinks cost about the same as the rest of the coffee shops on this list, Black Heart Coffee Co. drinks tend to be a little smaller. Not to fret, you’ll know exactly where your money went upon first sip — and maybe even before that.

4. The Coffee Roaster

Hours of operation: Monday-Sunday, 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Address: 13567 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
How to order: Over the phone by calling (818) 905-9719 or in store

Matcha latte we’re going to let you finish, but the dirty chai latte at The Coffee Roaster is one of the best drinks of all time. Of. All. Time. The Coffee Roaster takes coffee seriously and offers roasts from Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Colombia. They also have historical Valley maps on display inside their Ventura Boulevard storefront.

5. Red Window Coffee

Hours of operation: Monday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Address: 12953 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA 91604
How to order: In person

Red Window Coffee is old school. While they have a website, there really isn’t much on it — no merch, no phone number, and no online ordering system. To get some Red Window Coffee, you have to go down to this ~aesthetic~ little window yourself. It’s 100% worth it.

6. Cafe Aficionado

Hours of operation: Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Address: 8904 Reseda Blvd., Northridge, CA 91324
How to order: In store

The ube latte from Cafe Aficionado is the beverage you never knew you needed. Ube is delicious. Ube ice cream is even better. Ube macaron sandwiches are ~heavenly~. Cafe Aficionado’s ube latte, though, is it for hot Valley days (aka 350 out of 365 days in the Valley). Cafe Aficionado could use your help — consider donating to their GoFundMe.

7. Cara Vana

Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m., and Saturday- Sunday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Address: 5629 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601
How to order: In store

The sign at Cara Vana changes frequently, and one of our all-time favorite iterations is “Cafecito por favor.” Cara Vana also has a gorgeous Lankershim storefront and delicious, one-of-a-kind drinks — like their white chocolate matcha latte and their rose-embellished lattes. As of November 2020, Cara Vana has happy hour from noon to 3 p.m.

8. Duckyard Coffee

Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Address: 16935 Vanowen St. Suite F, Lake Balboa, CA 91406
How to order: In person or online via Duckyard’s Square shop

According to their site and Instagram account, Duckyard Coffee is the first coffee house in Lake Balboa — and thank goodness for that. Whether you want a latte, a café au lait, or a trendy CBD-infused specialty drink, the folks at Duckyard have got you covered.

9. Traveler’s Coffee Cup

Hours of operation: Monday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
Address: 8332 Sepulveda Blvd. #4, North Hills, CA 91343
How to order: In store

One thing about Traveler’s Coffee Cup: You’re going to love it there. This is a perfect place to take your non-coffee-loving friends (if you have them) as Traveler’s Coffee Cup also offers açaí bowls and flavored teas. Traveler’s Coffee Cup also does some dope-ass latte art.

10. Churro Hub Café

Hours of operation: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sunday, noon-8 p.m.
Address: 9007 Woodman Ave., Arleta, CA 91331
How to order: In person or by calling (818) 810-5072

You can find a mazapán latte, an Abuelita mocha latte, and an horchata latte — all available hot, iced, or as frappés — at the Arleta gem that is Churro Hub Café. As if that wasn’t enough, its name isn’t one bit misleading: Yes, they have churros here. If we were you, we’d try the churro sundae.