Two Bits Market Hopes to Bring Fresh Options to the Historic Core
Pamela Rouse
[Flickr]
Brandi Lozano points out renovations inside the space that will soon house her Two Bits market on the ground floor of The Alexandria.
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — When most people see a problem in their neighborhood, they complain about it. Brandi Lozano decided to do something to change it.
Two Bits, which could open in May on the ground floor of The Alexandria, is a fresh produce market that Lozano hopes will fill a gap in options for purchasing fresh foods.
Lozano, who moved Downtown from Highland Park just over a year ago, says she's a new "foodie." While her background is in the skateboard industry, but she was looking for a change into a business she was passionate about.
To open the space she's partnered with Vianey Delgadillo, owner of Bar 107 and The Down & Out. Delgadillo's relationship with the Amerland Group helped land the space on 5th street, between Spring and Broadway.
The company was looking for something similar, and Lozano says that Amerland has been a big help in the process. "Ruben [Islas] and Jules [Arthur] have really been supportive," she says.
The idea for the market was inspired by the "Bi-Rite" market she had visited with her fiance in the Mission neighborhood of San Francisco. Along with the walls of fresh produce, she will have imported cheese and wine.
She's also consulted with Chef Brian Murphy of New York on a menu that will feature sandwich selections. "I found a local bakery in South Pasadena -- Great Harvest Bakery -- that mills its own flour," Lozano explains.
Like Two Bits, the bakery in question is also a new business. "They've been open just a few weeks." Lozano hopes to work with other local businesses like Great Harvest.
Renovations are currently underway to prep the 1,000 square foot space for build-out to begin. While raw, the space does have some some nice features. "I plan to have our hardwood floors refinished," Lozano adds.
Lozano says she wants to hear from the community and get feedback from her Downtown neighbors. "I'm a little new to the industry, so I'm all ears," she says. If permitting goes smoothly, the market could open in 30 - 60 days.
Ken Hall on March 24, 2010, at 03:14PM – #1
Congratulations and welcome to downtown!...my only suggestions would be to do whatever you have to do to keep your prices low, offer early morning and late night hours, participate in the Art Walk each month and I'm sure you'll do well.
Best of luck to you!
Ken
Robyn on March 24, 2010, at 03:17PM – #2
Good luck! Ya know - Homegirl Industries bakes some pretty serious goods. If you're partnering, maybe you could help each other out. Just a thought.
Guest on March 24, 2010, at 03:19PM – #3
This is great news and that location is perfect.
Love those types of places in San Francisco and the historic core is ripe for one of its own.
Downtownie on March 24, 2010, at 04:20PM – #4
I would say definitely listen to Ken Hall. I live in downtown and work elsewhere so I need the late and weekend hours. Maybe think about fax or call in orders so produce can be ready to go when the customer gets there, or even local bike delivery. That would be SUPER helpful when I'm in a rush. I can't wait to shop there! Thanks for making my neighborhood better!
Julie Jamerson on March 24, 2010, at 04:53PM – #5
Oh, god, I'm extremely excited about this! I live just down the street, and having an option to buy fresh food just a little bit away would be wonderful! Pershing Sq has the farmers market on Wednesdays (mid day) in the summer, but since I work 9-5, I can never get there in time to buy anything.
One idea.. Maybe have coffee available too? It's always nice to buy some fresh veggies and pick up coffee at the same time.
Best of luck!
Don Garza on March 24, 2010, at 04:54PM – #6
There are more questions than answers from this story..
What kinds of produce will be offered? Will they be organic?
Will there be meats provided? If so , will it be organic and grass fed instead of grain fed?
I love mulberries and am on a paleo diet, will there be nuts and seeds and almond butter and coconut oils etc? The mulberries need to be organic. I don't eat bread , cheese , etc. Many have been waiting on a store to offer things besides dairy products , grains , and sugary junk.
We in downtown have been waiting a long time for something like this , but if those items are not in stock , it would behoove us just to get on the redline and head on over to the new Trader Joes once it is open on Hollywood and vine..
We need more info on the market...
We need more information on items that will be offered..
I support the efforts and look forward to anyone bringing us the convenience of a "produce " market, but fill us in on what will be offered. Just stating that the new market will be like bi-rite doesn't tell me anything. I have never shopped in the Mission District of San Francisco and probably never will , thus I can't make a comparison.
Tell us more.
Guest on March 24, 2010, at 05:18PM – #7
One question I have Is If 1000 sq feet enough for this business? I mean if u are gonna be a produce market with all the stuff I think they should have at least at least between 2500-5000 sq feet. Maybe there will be expansion plans later on if this is a hit. Much Success.
Dixon on March 24, 2010, at 10:02PM – #8
What's a "foodie"?
SeanYodaRouse on March 24, 2010, at 11:06PM – #9
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foodie
Dixon on March 25, 2010, at 12:09AM – #10
I have to look it up? Oh, ok, here's what it said: "...gourmets are epicures of refined taste who may or may not be professionals in the food industry, whereas foodies are amateurs who simply love food for consumption..."
Her "foodie" qualification doesn't sound too exciting to me. I'd prefer a gourmet market instead.
Guest on March 25, 2010, at 07:35AM – #11
I'm a little bothered that my neighbors are turning out to be so pessimistic and demanding. I'm looking forward to a new market.
Tawdry Tempest on March 25, 2010, at 08:35AM – #12
I can see your moustache-ha ha ha!
YAY BRANDI! YAY V!
Love you ladies!
DawnC on March 25, 2010, at 09:21AM – #13
This sounds awesome! My only request is to echo the one for organic and add locally grown. It would be amazing to be able to get Farmer's Market quality 24/7.
Dixon on March 25, 2010, at 09:24AM – #14
I am a bit pessimistic, only because this market doesn't yet seem to be what is needed---a good solid place with a decent selection of staples. We already have markets within a couple of blocks--Old Bank Market and the market on Spring St. between 6th and 7th. We also have Grand Central Market for fresh produce.
She's planning on serving sandwiches, so there goes some of the 1,000 sq. feet. Let's just hope she doesn't offer 25 kinds of chips like Ray's place on Main. That seems like something a skateboarder turned "foodie" would do.
Finally, her partnership with the owner of seedy Bar 107 doesn't bode well for a good community market with staples needed for actual cooking. Wanna bet she ends up selling beer and wine?
Phillip on March 25, 2010, at 10:10AM – #15
You beat me to it! Congratulations and best of luck!
Guest on March 25, 2010, at 10:35AM – #16
I wish Brandi and Vianey the best of luck with this new venture :)<3
Nina Decker on March 25, 2010, at 10:43AM – #17
Hello Brandi!
So excited! It's will do perfect in downtown! Fresh food, sandwiches, meat, cheese, wine, bread and beer would make the downtowner feel like they were shopping in NYC. Organic dog biscuits and treats are always fun. Pies and desserts are amazing. Look at Trails Cafe in Griffith Park. And the longer the hours and weekends too, the better!
Good Luck! We can't wait!
Guest on March 25, 2010, at 11:15AM – #18
our goal is -- local, organic, non-processed foods. no soda pop and no chips. very limited space but, all those lovely farmers from the farmers market have already said they can commit to multiple deliveries a week to keep it fresh. all these comments are great, thank you for your support. as for gourmet i am an amateur. i just want clean food and my friend from NY will help on the gourmet tip for all you epicureans.
sissycatt on March 25, 2010, at 11:19AM – #19
hhhmmm... i don't know about calling grand central market "fresh". the garlic is from china and we live next to bakersfield and gilroy.
Don Garza on March 25, 2010, at 12:55PM – #20
woohoo!! Organic , non processed foods!!! Yeehah!!!
Guest on March 25, 2010, at 04:55PM – #21
I just met Brandy when she was checking out the location and taking some photos this afternoon. I think she has her act together and this store should be a real hit. Not to mention it's location across the street from CB1 will give me a great place to get lunch for gallery visitors from time to time.
Clyde www.cb1gallery.com
Alonso on March 25, 2010, at 05:03PM – #22
Considering the size of the space, you could take cues from SF micro-markets like:
http://www.bluefogmarket.com/ or http://www.lebeaumarket.com/
Bi-Rite is a solid little establishment. Great model, hopefully you can create even a shade of what it is, and I'll be there all the time. The simpler, the better!
Guest on March 25, 2010, at 08:10PM – #23
Paleoman ate raw meat, carrion and whatever He/she could find. Where is that market?
Christophe Serafino on March 25, 2010, at 10:14PM – #24
I live around the corner and hate having to walk or bike all the way to Ralphs or Nijiya in J-town just to grab some fresh produce to make a quick meal.
Our are is so dense in residential, that this market will be well supported. I'll be happy to support this local business!
I'm very excited! Good luck to all involved in the project.
Guest on March 26, 2010, at 01:41AM – #25
So excited!! I'll echo the first comment: keep prices low and keep competitive hours. Central market has great fresh produce at great prices but horrible hours. Alot of us would be willing to pay a little extra for longer hours, but not too extra. Having quality/eco-conscious staples (home sundries: cleaning, personal, toiletries etc) would also be nice!
Bravo! This will be great. Many of us would live a Trader Joes but this will do JUST FINE if done right!!
Susana Benavidez on March 26, 2010, at 09:05AM – #26
Good luck to you! Ignore the negative comments -people like that like to rain on everyone's parade.
Congratulations on taking the leap to open your own business in downtown. I live in the Southpark area but I walk through Historic core daily and will definitely visit your store. I'm a vegetarian and am always looking for fresh top quality produce- I can't wait!
Susana
Don Garza on March 26, 2010, at 12:49PM – #27
Just look at it this way! Those negative people won't be around that long anyway, considering they just want to fill up on processed foods. I learned my lesson. the hard way. SO , you go Brandi! If you go through the archives of this blog and other comments on other social network sites then you will see that you will be meeting a demand for the healthy conscious folks in downtown ..we are all waiting and will be shopping there..
The little markets that don't follow suit aren't going to make it..
Erik on March 26, 2010, at 09:26PM – #28
I echo Susana's (#26) comments. Now and then I enjoy shopping at Grand Central Market, but your endeavor will bring customers who can afford a more healthy selection of food. Best of luck. Once I hear of your store's opening, I will be sure to visit from West Hollywood. Can't wait.
Heather Hixon (@HeatherrHixon) on March 27, 2010, at 09:22AM – #29
omgosh! yayayay!! i can't wait :)
Guest on March 27, 2010, at 09:29AM – #30
to guest #7's post. Obviously you've never traveled outside the US, I've been in full scale grocery stores that are in spaces 800-1000sq ft. They key is to not carry mass amounts of product and continually get shipments in as needed similar to trader joes model of, if it's sold out it's sold out but a new shipment arrives that night so it's stocked for morning opening. I think it will do great as long as they do what Ken said low prices and early to late hours. Props to Brandi and Vee!
DawnC on March 27, 2010, at 09:43AM – #31
Oh, you know what else would be great for us busy working people? Quick simple recipes that can be made with things all available in the store. That way we can just grab everything we need and make it for dinner and you can up your sales with a few extra purchases.
I often wander through gourmet stores and think that things look good but wonder how you're supposed to prepare them. I'd love to learn some new stuff while I'm shopping.
Dan in LA on March 27, 2010, at 04:34PM – #32
Great news! Welcome to the neighborhood.
I love the direction you're going, we'll be there for sure! I've been frustrated with Trader Joe's lack of love for DTLA, so I for one would prefer a few stores like this and Ray's to a TJ's at this point. I think the locally grown, in season, organic concept is perfect for the produce. I would love to see this kind of standard the rest of the offerings too.
Again, Congratulations!!!
Guest on March 27, 2010, at 08:03PM – #33
I think what Ms Lozano is doing is wonderful. I wish her nothing but success. However, it will be difficult to re-create a Trader Joe's type of business without the greater bulk volume of a large chain operation. In other words, it will be tougher for her to offer reasonably good prices and make enough money to keep her doors open.
She'll also have to deal with the notorious legal codes and fees of city government, which are known to create a lot of burdens (and costs) for small businesses throughout Los Angeles. She'll also be facing major employee mandates (unemployment insurance, healthcare, etc) and the resulting expenses that pop up for every person she hires.
A business can survive against the odds if it has enough experience and size. But if it's new and small and opening in today's climate, it will be a struggle.
Considering all the hurdles, it would be fantastic if Brandi Lozano somehow manages to duplicate a small version of the success of the guy in Monrovia/Pasadena who created Trader Joe's from scratch several decades ago.
Guest on March 28, 2010, at 11:37AM – #34
Clearly, some downtowners would benefit from some international travel and living.
Downtown is gagging for new businesses. The food options down here are weak, especially for anyone who cares about food quality and culinary adventure. That market on Spring is crap. It just happens to be open all the time. Bi-Rite is a perfect model for a new market and I wish these women success.
If your basis for grocery success and variety is Trader Joe's (a market I find increasingly McLifestyle and bland), you might want to apply for a passport and use it. In the meantime, head to the Mission in SF and cruise through Bi-Rite and see how a real gourmet, small market is done. The bread, cheese and flowers are always incredible. Their stuff is worth every penny.
Guest on March 28, 2010, at 01:15PM – #35
Their stuff is worth every penny
That's easy to say if your monthly income is rather hefty and your monthly expenses (above and beyond food) are rather small. Or if you're a trust-fund baby, who are more plentiful in a boutique-bubble city like San Francisco -- or local areas like Santa Monica or Brentwood -- than a more egalitarian community like downtown Los Angeles.
Our of curiosity, I searched Yelp about Bi-Rite -- which isn't the greatest of names (to me it sounds like a discount store or place similar to Rite-Aid) -- and found the following comments, each one from a different person posting to Yelp:
I dont get the hype over this incredibly overpriced market except the location.
Granted, they are expensive at $8 a pint
Buy right. Leave broke.
I think this is a great place even though it is a little overpriced
Cons: Parking is extremely difficult in this area; cramped aisles; expensive;
Their produce isn't cheap
Oh and the prices - rare are the times in my life that I felt I couldn't afford a cucumber for my salad but they were all at Bi-Rite market. If you're on a budget you'll want to try someplace else...
Okay, okay, Bi-Rite is slowly winning me over. Although I still think they are overpriced
The fruit/veg all look great but I can never make myself buy anything at those prices.
Minus one star for being so damned expensive.
I know that I won't be disappointed by anything I buy there, which for me, justifies the cost. Think of it as "food insurance".
The owner of Two Bits possibly will do well even with a business plan that involves products marked at higher Bi-Rite type prices. But my hunch is, because of the location of the Alexandria Hotel, she would have a harder time keeping enough customers streaming into her store to remain open. I hope I'm wrong, but the Bi-Rite formula may be tempting fate.
Bert Green (@bgfa) on March 28, 2010, at 02:49PM – #36
Keep in mind that about 7 years ago just about the only business in the Historic Core open past 6 pm was Pete's Cafe. We've seen an amazing amount of growth in those few years, but it will still take a lot longer to get to the place where the neighborhood has the variety of urban neighborhoods that did not experience the kind of abandonment we saw here over the past 35 years.
We are getting to the point now where there are enough people living here to support many different kinds of businesses, but look at the ones that are doing well: they have affordable prices. I've seen a lot of small businesses go away over the past few years that charged too much money.
I wish this new market well, but it makes no sense to make incessant comparisons to other cities; hopefully the owners of this store will appeal to the locals, and offer what they want. That's usually a process, and the formula must evolve over time. Hopefully Brandi understands this. That type of responsiveness and flexibility is what makes a business a standout.
Guest on March 28, 2010, at 11:13PM – #37
Judging by the photo, I will be there quite often. I, too, am a slobbering foodie.
alexandra on March 30, 2010, at 12:18AM – #38
welcome, brandi! i've lived at 6th & main for almost 5 years and had hoped we'd get a store like yours on our corner...but i'm happy to walk a few blocks to you. please do keep it as affordable as possible. we're all struggling in one way or another these days, but we create real community when we ask for support.
fellow downtowners, be classy and give the girl a chance!
Robert on March 30, 2010, at 05:00AM – #39
I have noticed that some of these markets have not responded to the changing demographics Downtown. When I think of certain markets that I frequent, it is because of the service, quality of the product, uniqueness (I don't buy packaged potato chips), friendliness and cleanliness of the place. There is definitely room for a quality small market Downtown. Think of NY and the great Bodega around the corner. It sounds like you are offering something currently not available in the neighborhood. Some markets should be worried. Competition will make them better. Best of luck to you!
Matthew Jackson Cooper on March 30, 2010, at 09:40AM – #40
I'd like to second the idea of a meat counter, space permitting, because sometimes I get a hankering for a steak
DawnC on March 30, 2010, at 10:50AM – #41
I'm not sure why anyone would even mention Trader Joe's in comments under this article. Trader Joe's started carrying produce because their customers kept begging for it but they really have never quite gotten it down. I've often come home with rotten or mealy fruit that only looks good through the plastic packaging. I consider TJ's produce, produce of last resort. A place that focuses on fresh, local, organic produce is not only badly needed, it's worth a few more cents a pound.
Guest on March 30, 2010, at 11:08AM – #42
yeah man...I hate packaged fruit.
glag on March 30, 2010, at 05:10PM – #43
Very excited about this new market.
Until they open - and if shopping during the day - don't forget Grand Central Market - I know it's been mentioned here before but you can really buy everything you need there. Granted, you have to pay at different stalls, but you can find produce, meats, the freshest tortillas and baked goods, even liquor - and the downstairs convenience store has incredible prices on dry goods (purchased half a dozen plastic hangers for $1.).
So, message here is basically embrace the new, but don't forget the standbys!
Guest on April 14, 2010, at 09:02PM – #44
We will shop at this market!!!! how wonderful!
Downtown Los Angeles Blog, please let us know when it opens!
Thanks!
Guest on April 22, 2010, at 02:14PM – #45
the great thing about this new store opening is that Brandi is a local downtowner and so is Vee. so why wouldn't they want to cater to those who live here. most of the other little markets are run by people who don't know anything about downtown beyond the block they are located on!
Sandie Richards on June 30, 2010, at 09:04AM – #46
What about produce available from the South Central Farmers! They moved from Vernon to Buttonwillow awhile ago-- I'd love it if a downtown store could feature their stuff. http://www.southcentralfarmers.com/
Guest on July 13, 2010, at 10:45PM – #47
Hurry up, Brandi...I'm freakin hungry! Building inspectors giving you trouble? Or the contractors?
Guest on August 01, 2010, at 01:27PM – #48
I peeked inside this morning...and nice sign up on the window