YouTube This Week - Behind the Booth with Cloris Creates
Are you a proud pet parent who loves flaunting your furry friend's adorable face everywhere you go? If so, we have some delightful news to share! Our newest video spotlights an incredible vendor who has captured the essence of over 1000 different pets in unique keychains and stickers. Prepare to be amazed as we explore the world of adorable and customizable pet memorabilia that is sure to melt your heart.
In our newest installment of Behind the Booth, we get to meet Cloris, the artist and owner of Cloris Creates. Her inspiration for creating so many different exotic pet keychains and stickers comes from her passion of wanting to be able to represent all types of pets. Being an owner of a White Husky she struggled to find White Husky merchandise to show off her love of her furry companion. Her goal is to represent as many pets as she can, especially the more exotic pets because they don’t get a lot of representation. Now, she has keychains representing over one thousand different pets!
Cloris hints at the struggles beginning her small business during the pandemic. It is inspiring to see so much growth and success from her through the journey she embarked on during uncertain times! We are proud to be a platform that supports many creators and entrepreneurs with their dreams and are always looking forward to hearing more success stories like Cloris’.
Visit Cloris Creates and many more of our amazing vendors this upcoming weekend July 28-30, 2023 in Pleasanton, CA for our last Bay Area 626 Night Market! Click HERE to register for tickets.
Bay Area Vendor Applications Open
Thank you for two sold out weekends in a row at Santa Anita Park! We are now headed up to San Francisco Bay Area for our next event at Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton on August 6-8th. Vendor applications are still open for all three of our locations including Santa Anita Park in Arcadia and OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa.
Thank you for two sold out weekends in a row at Santa Anita Park! We are now headed up to San Francisco Bay Area for our next event at Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton on August 6-8th. Vendor applications are still open for all three of our locations including Santa Anita Park in Arcadia and OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa.
Our schedule is as follows:
Alameda County Fairgrounds: August 6-8th
Alameda County Fairgrounds: August 20-22th
Santa Anita Park: August 27-29th
Santa Anita Park: September 3-5th
Alameda County Fairgrounds: September 24-26th
OC Fair & Event Center: TBA
Get your tickets for Santa Anita Park and Alameda County Fairgrounds today!
If you are interested in working as event staff, especially at Alameda County Fairgrounds, please send us an email to info@626nightmarket.com.
Follow us on Instagram @626nightmarket, @626nightmarket_bayarea and @626nightmarket_oc, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok for more event updates.
The Milk Tea Company Opens First Location in 626
The Milk Tea Company started out as a vendor at our 626 Night Market events in Arcadia and Costa Mesa. After coming back for multiple seasons, they have finally opened a storefront in 626! They just opened in February 2021 in Rosemead, CA.
The Milk Tea Company started out as a vendor at our 626 Night Market events in Arcadia and Costa Mesa. After coming back for multiple seasons, they have finally opened a storefront in 626! They just opened in February 2021 in Rosemead, CA (9711 Valley Blvd, Ste A, Rosemead, CA 91770).
The Milk Tea Company’s booth at 626 Night Market | Image by @themilkteaco
At their new location, they have included their popular Hong Kong Style Milk Tea and Royal Milk Tea on their menu. Besides teas, they also have a selection of coffee and milk-based drinks. Have you ever had curry flavored popcorn chicken? What about 13 spice? You can try those flavors and more at The Milk Tea Company since they also offer popcorn chicken to snack on!
Royal Milk Tea and 13 Spice Popcorn Chicken | Image by @akinnaeats
Rosemead storefront | Image by @themilkteaco
Find their whole menu here and pay them a visit soon! Do not forget to tag @themilkteaco and @626nightmarket in your pictures, we want to see what you try!
We Love Holiday Food!
In our last post we featured some holiday meals and holiday themed boxes but we have even more vendors offering some holiday flavors on their menus! They won’t be staying long, so make sure to stop by soon. Make sure to give them a follow to be notified of future offerings!
In our last post we featured some holiday meals and holiday themed boxes but we have even more vendors offering some holiday flavors on their menus! They won’t be staying long, so make sure to stop by soon. Make sure to give them a follow to be notified of future offerings!
SCOOPS ON TAP
Scoops On Tap makes premium ice cream using only the best local ingredients. They create their own unique flavors that rotate occasionally. To find their current flavors you can visit their Instagram or website. Right now their holiday flavors are Candy Cane Lane, Hearthside Eggnog, and Cranberry Compliments (plant based). You can order them by the pint for pickup in Montclair, CA or on Saturdays at the Pasadena Farmers Market or Downtown Upland Farmers Market. They also deliver within 45 miles of their Montclair location. Hurry and order a pint before their holiday flavors sell out!
NANA BEAR'S MINI DONUTS
You can find Nana Bear’s Mini Donuts in NorCal selling their mini donuts. They are made fresh everyday and can be bought in different quantities by the box. For the holidays, they currently have holiday flavors and DIY kits available. If you are close to them around the Lathrop, Manteca, or Tracy areas, contact them for ordering and delivery options! You can find their email on Instagram.
LABOBATORY
Labobatory is located in the 626. They are known for their creative flavors and also have a DIY Boba Kit available to be shipped nationwide! Their holiday drinks this year are Chocolate Peppermint Milk Tea and White Chocolate Strawberry Milk Tea. They are available for a limited time so stay updated by checking their Instagram or website.
DRUNKEN CAKE POPS
Drunken Cake Pops is based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA and makes liquor infused cake pops. For the holidays they have Liquor Infused Holiday Cake Pops with flavors like Santa’s Eggnog to Tipsy Gingerbread to everyone’s favorite Drunken Abuela! Some of their original flavors include German Chocolate Whiskey, Lemon Drop Martini, Monique’s Pink Champagne, and more. If you’re looking for virgin options, they have that too! Go to their website for more flavors and yes, they ship as well! They also had Hot Chocolate Bombs and Sugar Cookies at their store. Follow their Instagram for the latest news.
WOW WOW HAWAIIAN LEMONADE
You can find Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade in Hawaii, Arizona and California! They have a location in Livermore, CA and one coming soon in El Dorado Hills, CA. They make craft lemonades, acai bowls, smoothies and other healthy bites. For the holidays, they have holiday inspired Cold Brews, Smoothies, and Toasts. They’re leaving soon, so go get a Pumpkin Spice, Gingerbread Spice, or Peppermint Cacao Cold Brew or Smoothie and a Pumpkin Spice Nut Butter Toast or Gingerbread Nut Butter Toast while you still can!
FANCY FLAVORS
Fancy Flavors doesn’t have a storefront yet, but they are based in San Jose, CA and ship nationwide! Their Macarons are so beautiful and they can make custom orders too. This year they made Macaron Advent Calendars and a Mixed Holiday Assortment Box. Unfortunately, the advent calendars have been sold out for a while now and the holiday box is nearing its end as well. If you want to make sure you can get some macarons before they sell out next time, follow their Instagram or check their website!
These holiday creations are leaving soon. Will you be stopping by? Make sure to tag us in your photos so we can see your orders!
Still Looking for Holiday Meals or Treats?
Is food the way to your heart? Our vendors are cooking up some holiday specials this year! If you don’t have time to cook or haven’t had time to figure out gifts for your foodie friends yet, keep reading to see if something catches your eye. We’ve compiled a list with some holiday meals and holiday themed gift boxes!
Is food the way to your heart? Our vendors are cooking up some holiday specials this year! If you don’t have time to cook or haven’t had time to figure out gifts for your foodie friends yet, keep reading to see if something catches your eye. We’ve compiled a list with some holiday meals and holiday themed gift boxes!
MEALS
ARIA CAFE
Aria Cafe in Long Beach, CA launched their Holiday Menu with plenty of options to pick from. Their menu is a la carte style, so you just pick the dishes you want. Pick up dates are December 24th - 26th, but make sure to get your order in by Thursday, December 17th! If you try to order after the 17th, they might not be able to accommodate your order. Check their Instagram for more details. You can also message them to place your order.
CALI-FLOWER FOODS
Cali-Flower Foods is a vegan pop-up that does events and catering. They are mainly located in the Inland Empire and created a Holiday Feast this year! It feeds 4 to 7 people and includes a full size stuffed foturkey, gravey, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and cranberry sauce. Last day to order is Tuesday, December 22nd! Message them on Instagram for more details and to order.
HOLIDAY BOXES
BUNSO BREADS
Bunso Breads is a Filipino Bakery in Pleasanton, CA known for their Ensaymada Balls, a traditional Filipino sweet brioche. Besides their selection of Filipino treats like Ube Flan Cupcakes and Pork Adobo Rolls, they currently have Holiday Boxes available. The options are the savory Ham & Quezo de Bola Ensaymada Balls, the eye-catching Holiday Ube Cake Box, the all-inclusive 12 Days of Christmas Variety Box, or the delicious Christmas Wreath Ensaymada Balls. Place your orders as soon as possible on their website! They are available for pickup on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and only the Holiday Ube Cake Box is available for shipping.
THE CORNER STOOP
The Corner Stoop draws from different inspirations in life, including growing up in a Filipino-American family. Their usual menu includes pies, cookies, breads, and more. Based in Los Angeles County, they also are available to cater events. For the holidays this year they have a Cookie Holiday Box, Mini Loaf Holiday Bag, and Holiday Gift Box. All their items are available to be shipped nationwide, so order on their website as soon as possible!
TUCHELADA
Usually at different events throughout the year, you can currently pick up from TuChelada in Pasadena, CA or order any of their items online (they ship worldwide)! For the holidays, they have a Christmas Michelada Ready Box and a Christmas Chili-Gummy Box. You can make your own Micheladas at home or snack on some yummy Chili-Gummies! They also have other michelada supplies, chili-gummies, chili-candies, and accessories available.
MACARONS BY NATALIE
Macarons by Natalie is based in Oakland, CA and can create anything from custom character macarons to Japanese Souffle Cheesecakes. They have over 49 flavors and are perfect for any event! They haven’t announced their Holiday Box yet, but when they do it will be on their Instagram. In the meantime, you can pickup some goodies in Oakland or get them delivered anywhere in the Bay Area.
Will you be ordering anything from this list? Let us know! Make sure to tag us in your photos so we can see all the delicious food you get.
Help 626 Night Market Vendor Seoul Street Find A New Home
Many of our attendees have fond memories chowing down on the infamous bulgogi fries from one of our most popular vendors, Seoul Street. Unfortunately, their lease renewal this year for their brick-and-mortar Irvine location was denied despite their good business and on time payments.
Seoul Street’s booth at 626 Night Market in Arcadia, California. Photo by @smellypanda.
Many of our attendees have fond memories chowing down on the infamous bulgogi fries from one of our most popular vendors, Seoul Street. Run by the Kim family consisting ofJonathan Kim, his parents and sister, the Kims have been in the food business since 1998. Jonathan’s parents started in retail before opening several Philly steak sandwich and ice cream franchises. He recalls that “when I got older I started helping and got inspired to do Korean food. Then the night market/foodie life boomed and I was able to find my niche here,” inspiring the beginnings of Seoul Street and their traditional Korean cuisine with a modern twist in 2008.
Hot Cheetos bulgogi fries with egg from Seoul Street. Photo by @eatwithkim.
Seoul Street gained a good following at festivals and events such as 626 Night Market due to word-of-mouth and drool-worthy photos of their food that went viral on Instagram. In May 2019, they achieved every entrepreneurial chef’s dream of opening their first brick-and-mortar location: “It was a small space in a commercial business center, but one we could call home.”
When COVID-19 forced restrictions on many restaurants, Seoul Street kept pushing through to continue feeding people thanks to lots of community support. Unfortunately, their lease renewal this year was denied despite their good business and on time payments. The location specifically did not want their cuisine anymore and this forced the Kims to search for a new home. They have not been able to find a new location yet, but please consider supporting Seoul Street and their GoFundMe! You can read more about their experience on their Instagram or GoFundMe page.
The money will go towards helping fund a new location or food truck. They would like to stay in Orange County particularly in the Irvine area as that's where they are known but are open to options.
Top 6 Vendors Offering Takeout or Delivery in 626 and LA
Looking for some delicious takeout or delivery options? We’ve done the research and put together some of our favorites so you don’t have to! Here are a few of our picks for those in 626 and LA:
Looking for some delicious takeout or delivery options? We’ve done the research and put together some of our favorites so you don’t have to! Here are a few of our picks for those in 626 and LA:
LOBSTERDAMUS
Images via @justinquebral.
If you haven’t had Lobsterdamus at the 626 Night Market, did you really go? If you have ever walked past their booth at our events you know how crazy their line gets! Lucky for you, they’re open for curbside pick-up every Thursday to Sunday. You can order some mouth-watering Lobster with just a few clicks and then wait in the comfort of your car! Besides Lobster, they’ve got their Garlic Noodz, Lobster Truffle Fries, and some new Filipino additions as well. Don’t forget to pre-order!
Follow them on Instagram for updates and find their full menu on their website.
PARAISO JUICE BAR & GRILL
Images via @paraisojuicebar.
Mexican Food with a Twist. You can’t go wrong with Paraiso! Besides offering Burritos, Tacos, Quesadillas, Nachos, and more…they have a section of their menu devoted to Hot Cheetos! If you are a Hot Cheetos fan, you have to try their Hot Cheeto Burrito, Taco, Mulita, or Fries. They also have a wide range of drinks, from Aguas Frescas to Raspados, to accompany your meal. Call in your order or walk-in for takeout! They also have free delivery within a 5 mile radius of their store in La Mirada.
Follow their Instagram for updates and go to their website for the menu.
ENSAYMADA PROJECT
Images via @ensaymadaproject.
Ensaymadas are a traditional Filipino sweet brioche. They are handcrafted by hand and use an artisanal recipe. Ensaymada Project’s mission is to bring the traditional Filipino Ensaymada to people worldwide while also creating new flavors. People easily buy these by the dozen! The Classic Cheese and Ube flavors are some of their most popular flavors, but honestly they’re all a hit and will be devoured in no time! They are currently available for pick up or shipping within USA and Canada!
Follow their Instagram and check their website for rotating flavors.
MAIN CHICK
Images via @eatmainchick and @lafoodiegirl.
Main Chick Hot Chicken serves Nashville style fried chicken with spices ranging from mild to some of the hottest peppers in the world. You can chose from their different combos that feature their sandwiches, tenders, fries, and house sauce. They are currently in West LA and plan to open a brick and mortar in Pasadena in the future. You can order online for pick up or delivery now!
Follow their Instagram and visit their website to view hours and ordering options.
BELLY BOMBZ
Images via @bellybombz.
Belly Bombz has been voted “Best Wing Restaurant” at the Santa Anita Craft Beer and Wing Festival and “Best Burger Restaurant” at the Burger & Brewfest in the past. What more can I say? This gourmet food truck has delicious wings, burgers, and fries to satisfy any craving! They are currently taking orders in Whittier and Artesia and selling gift cards too.
Visit their Instagram and website for the menu and ordering options.
CHICK N' SKIN
Images via @unlokt_la and @chicknskin.
First launched at the 626 Night Market in 2017, Chick N’ Skin sells tasty fried chicken skins. They deep fry and then season them with one of their six flavors: Original, Thai Chili Lime, Salt & Vinegar, Buffalo Wing, Chinese Salt & Pepper, and BBQ Bacon. You can eat them straight out of the bag or make your own creation. They taste great in burritos, nachos, and even salads! Better yet, Chicken N’ Skin ships anywhere in the US!
Follow them on Instagram and order from their website.
Check out the full list of 626 Night Market vendors still operating here.
Top 6 Vendors Offering Takeout or Delivery in the Bay Area
Craving some food from your favorite 626 Night Market vendors? Don’t worry, we gotchu! Check our website to see which vendors are open for takeout or delivery. Here are a few of our picks for those in the Bay Area:
Craving some food from your favorite 626 Night Market vendors? Don’t worry, we gotchu! Check our website to see which vendors are open for takeout or delivery. Here are a few of our picks for those in the Bay Area:
BOMBZIES BBQ
Images via Bombzies BBQ.
Bombzies BBQ is a food truck that specializes in Asian BBQ Bowls. From Teriyaki BBQ to Korean BBQ and even Thai Coconut Curry BBQ, you will definitely find something to satisfy your cravings. But don’t forget about their sides! Just thinking about their Kimchi Queso Fries, Crab Rangoons, and Crispy Chicken Potstickers makes my mouth water. They even do catering, so don’t forget them when you’re planning your next event or meeting.
Follow them on Instagram to see their schedule and specials and find their full menu on their website.
U DESSERT STORY
Images via @udessertstory.
Everyone loves a good instagrammable dessert and U Dessert Story has that and more! Their Bingsoo sounds amazing as the weather starts to warm up while their Crepe Cake is just the perfect way to end any meal. They also have so many drink options to choose from, you will have trouble deciding! Depending on which location you are at, they even have brunch options. Are you in the mood for some Mochi Waffles? How about some Loco Moco or Benedict? With three locations in the Bay Area, find your closest one or send a gift card to your loved ones!
Follow their Instagram for updates and go to their website to see their locations and menus. Gift cards available for purchase as well.
BUNSO BREADS
Images via @bunsobreads.
Talk about ube heaven! Bunso Breads is a Filipino bakery in the Tri-Valley area known for their bestselling Ensaymada Balls, a traditional Filipino sweet brioche. But they are always baking up something new in their kitchens. From Ube Flan Cupcakes to Ube Mochi Balls, they even just launched their Ube Quezo Rolls! Their menu items get sold out quick, so follow their social media if you want to snag yourself some ube goodness!
Follow their Instagram to stay updated when the next online ordering starts and view the items currently available on their website.
FANCY FLAVORS
Images via @officialfancyflavors.
Fancy Flavors specializes in French Macarons. Their Macarons are so beautiful and come in a variety of flavors. Occasionally they will post some limited items such as Choux Buns, Fruit Tarts, or Chocolate Covered Strawberries and they also accept custom orders! They are perfect for any occasion and available for nationwide shipping.
Follow their Instagram to see their new flavors and visit their website to place a pre-order.
I LOVE BRULEE
Images via @ilovebrulee.
If you are a Crème Brûlée lover you have to try I Love Brulee! Their Crème Brûlées come in the perfect size for you to snack on without getting full, so you can try their other flavors. Order them by the dozen and mix and match your favorite flavors!
Email ilovebrulee12@gmail.com to place an order and follow their Instagram to stay updated on seasonal flavors.
GONG CHA
Images via @betweenballoons and @gongchausa.
Gong Cha is known for serving quality bubble tea and has locations all throughout California. They have so many drink options to choose from, you can try a new flavor every time you go! They even sell Mochi Waffles and they launched their Crème Brûlée Mochi Waffle last month. Make sure to contact your closest Gong Cha for their store hours before heading in.
Follow them on Instagram or visit their website for their menu and locations.
Check out the full list of 626 Night Market vendors still operating here.
Top 6 Vendors Offering Takeout or Delivery in Orange County
Missing our 626 Night Market events? The next time you hear your stomach growl with hunger while sheltering at home, you can order takeout or delivery from one of your favorite vendors! Here are a few of our picks for those in the OC:
Missing our 626 Night Market events? The next time you hear your stomach growl with hunger while sheltering at home, you can order takeout or delivery from one of your favorite vendors! Here are a few of our picks for those in the OC:
Bred's Nashville Hot Chicken
Images via Bred Hot Chicken on Facebook.
Nashville-style Hot Chicken was a huge trend in food last year and vendor Bred's Nashville Hot Chicken was an instant hit with attendees. This Southern fried chicken is finished with a spicy sauce made with a generous amount of cayenne. Batter up and order the Supreme Chicken sandwich with vinaigrette slaw, pickles and Comeback sauce on a brioche bun. Choose your heat level from Wimpy, Mild, Medium, Spicy Dare and Double Dare. Add an entree of Chick N Waffles or a side of Millionaire Mac N Cheese.
Follow them on Instagram to see their schedule in Cypress, Diamond Bar, Irvine and Anaheim and order online.
Cafe 949
Images via @mrkevinknows and @cafe949.
We’ve all drooled over the Instagram photos of whole grilled lobster on a bed of garlicky noodles or watched the crew over at Cafe 949 grill their lobsters while preparing orders at our events. You can still get their iconic Grilled Lobster Garlic Noodles and Vietnamese Coffee as well as live lobster.
Call or text order to (949) 264-3519. Free delivery within 10 miles of Anaheim.
MICOO
Images via MICOO.
MICOO is a new vendor who is set to debut at our events in 2020. Raised by immigrant parents (her mom from South Korea and her dad from India), the founder created a mochi ice cream brand that is a dichotomy of religion, culture, and cuisine. They offer artisanal ice cream flavors that are nostalgic and innovative such as Mexican Hot Chocolate, Strawberry Mascarpone, Mango Lassi, Matcha Rose (vegan) and Almond Orange Blossom (vegan).
Order pints online for contactless delivery in OC and LA every Monday.
Norigami Tacos
Images via @aleeexlovesfood and @norigamitacos.
The name is derived from “nori,” meaning “seaweed,” and “origami,” meaning “folding art.” Their sushi tacos are truly works of art, created one night as a drunken experiment when the chef dipped a sheet of nori into tempura batter and dropped it into the fryer. Sushi rice, krab mix, and sushi fillings were added and TA-DAH! Norigami Tacos was born! You can now eat their delicious and crunchy sushi tacos at home with the purchase of a Sushi Taco Kit. They also recently introduced new item Karekatsu: Japanese curry with crispy tonkatsu fried meat (or veggie). Musubis and Poke Bowls are also available.
DM them via Instagram or Facebook to order for their pop-up delivery service to OC.
Seoul Street
Images via @eatwithkim and @crazyfoodiequeen.
Seoul Street is the OG Bulgogi Fries vendor. You’re missing out if you haven’t tried this popular Night Market item with fries, cheese, egg, their homemade Korean slaw, white garlic sauce and green onions. They also offer a wide variety of traditional and fusion Korean cuisine such as Kimchi Fried Rice, BBQ Bulgogi Burger, Bento Boxes and Bulgogi Tacos.
Call (949) 966-1449 for pickup in Irvine. Delivery available through DoorDash, Uber Eats, Postmates and Grubhub.
The Donut Makers
Images via @capricorncow and @letsdodessert.
The Donut Makers came to fame when their Croncha, a hybrid French croissant and Mexican concha, made the news on Foodbeast. Soon after, photos of their colorful donuts and pastries were in every foodie’s Instagram feed and they were a vendor at last year’s OC Night Market event. See their full menu here.
Their Garden Grove store is still open from 6AM-12PM for pickup.
Check out the full list of 626 Night Market vendors still operating here.
Written by Holly Nguyen (@tableflipemoji), PR & Marketing Manager at 626 Night Market.
2020 Vendor Sign Ups Open!
New year, new you! Do you have an idea for the next big foodie trend? Have you always wanted to be your own boss and run your own business? Now’s your chance! Start off the year strong by applying to be a vendor at one of our events.
New year, new you! Do you have an idea for the next big foodie trend? Have you always wanted to be your own boss and run your own business? Now’s your chance! Start off the year strong by applying to be a vendor at one of our events. We are looking for a diverse range of food, merchandise, and crafts vendors to join us for our 2020 season.
Ever since our first events in 2012, the 626 Night Market has not only grown in size, but has also fostered a growing community of vendors and entrepreneurs supporting each other in their pursuits. Year after year, we see the launch of so many new foods and trends and the continued growth and popularity of returning vendors. We are proud to say that many people have used our events to kickstart their businesses, eventually turning their booths into brick and mortars or year round businesses.
From our 2019 season, we saw new vendor The Golden Marrow disrupt the foodie scene with their drool-worthy bone marrow creations. Founded by two couples passionate about food, they took a delicacy usually only available in restaurants and introduced it to the night market crowd. With an incredibly positive response, they expanded their menu to add more flavors and have been constantly gearing up for even bigger plans in 2020.
Garlic Lovers and Strawberry Shortcake from The Golden Marrow. | Photo by Mike Sevilla.
Elton Keung, owner of Labobatory, was a vendor in our earlier years and returned in 2019 with a booth called Subtle Asian Boba that boasted a menu with various asian-themed drinks. With a location in San Gabriel already, Labobatory opened up a second location in Pasadena in November 2019, which you can read more about here!
New Labobatory location in Pasadena. | Photo by @clayconcarne.
Drunken Cake Pops, another returning vendor, sells liquor infused cake pops. What started out as just an idea, turned into a small business. Also a women owned business, they recently announced the opening of their first brick and mortar set to open in March 2020!
Drunken Cake Pops. | Photo by @drunkencakepops.
Year after year we are constantly surprised by the creativity and passion of our vendors. Whether it be food, merchandise, or crafts, all ideas have a place to start and flourish at the 626 Night Market.
What are you waiting for? Join the Night Market Family and sign up here.
Labobatory Opening Second Location In Pasadena
If anyone’s got milk tea flowing in their veins instead of blood, it’s Elton Keung, owner of Labobatory in San Gabriel, California by day and performing magician at exclusive club Magic Castle by night. Here’s what Keung has to say about boba, community and magic.
New Labobatory location in Pasadena. | Image by @clayconcarne.
If anyone’s got milk tea flowing in their veins instead of blood, it’s Elton Keung, owner of Labobatory in San Gabriel, California by day and performing magician at exclusive club Magic Castle by night. His obsession with boba is a love story that spans about 7 years from mixing alcoholic boba drinks, creating the world’s largest boba cup at 626 Night Market and being a fixture in the local Asian American community to opening a second science and boba-themed boba shop in Pasadena.
The drinks at Labobatory are “experiments,” with unique flavors such as the InstaMango, a colorful Mango Lemonade with Butterfly Flower Pea designed to look like the Instagram logo and the Wah! So Cookie!, a Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter Milk Tea, along with classics such as Roasted Oolong Milk Tea and the Melon Bar, a honeydew melon milk tea.
The Wah! So Cookie! (top left), InstaMango (top right), Melon Bar (bottom left) and Roasted Oolong Milk Tea (bottom right). | Image by @clayconcarne.
Here’s what Keung has to say about boba, community and magic:
Congrats on your new location in Pasadena! I visited your alcoholic boba shop called Boba 7 in Downtown LA (now closed) and your first Labobatory location in San Gabriel. What's your journey with boba been like from then until now?
It’s been quite a journey from a Kickstarter campaign all the way to now opening a second store. Alcoholic Boba went from being a brand new idea in the back of a Thai restaurant in DTLA inside the speakeasy Boba 7 back in 2012 to now a concept that’s worldwide. Lately, we have been doing alcoholic boba events as pop-ups inside bars around the LA area. From pop-ups in Austin to Boston in 2020, I’m starting to take the concept to new markets to expose more people to boba cocktails and what is possible.
As for Boba Beer specifically (per your question), lately I’ve been flirting with the idea of “Labobatory Brewing Company.” My newfound love for the craft beer scene has led to partnering with Ogopogo Brewery to do boba beer at the Dumpling Festival to hosting alcoholic boba events at craft beer specialty places such as 38 Degree Ale House in Alhambra (next event: 11/27). I do have dreams to open a location (cocktail bar/brewery) that features craft Boozy Boba in the future.
Tell us more about the new location. You have really cool murals on the walls based on the themes of boba and science to match your "science experiment" concept! What are the details of your grand opening?
The new location is in Pasadena (165 S De Lacey Ave. #1049, Pasadena, CA 91105) and was something we’ve been meaning to build. It’s a much bigger and cooler hangout spot for people - we can really host events, get people together, and build a community here. The Grand Opening of the Pasadena location is on Saturday, 11/23 from 11am to 11pm.
The mural artist Sandy Nguyen (@makingmirrors.ai) began working with us in October. Through countless days and nights working on a ladder, she drew an amazing mural that really brings this space to life. She also put a world map on the other side of the store for us to put our Labobatory around the world collection up.
Elton Keung mixing a boba drink at Labobatory Pasadena. | Image by @clayconcarne.
You're a huge community fixture at Asian American events. I've bumped into you at many events such as serving boba at TAP-LA (Taiwanese American Professionals in Los Angeles) and more recently as a speaker about entrepreneurship at the ACN (Asian Creative Network): Beyond Boba panel. How often do you attend events?
Growing up in Hong Kong during my adolescent years and then by Atlantic City, New Jersey for my preteen years, and finally San Marino, California for my teenage years, my Asian American experience is a huge part of my identity. I attend these Asian American events whenever my schedule permits. I’m always looking for the community to grow in whatever way possible. By showing up to provide boba catering, to perform magic, or just to socialize/have fun, I feel a sense of greater purpose. The community also contributes back so they can grow with us throughout - making the process, the journey more enjoyable.
Crafting a drink using real matcha with a mixing bowl and whisk at Labobatory Pasadena. | Image by @clayconcarne.
I remember Labobatory was a vendor at during one of the early years of 626 Night Market! Last summer you also had a booth called Subtle Asian Boba with various Asian-themed drinks like White Rabbit milk tea and performed at several events as a magician since you also perform magic at Magic Castle. How did that go?
Back in 2013, I won a contest called the “Walk the Talk” competition, which gave me an opportunity to sell boba drinks at 626 Night Market for the first time. That same summer, we collaborated with 626 Night Market to make the world’s largest boba cup. That summer selling boba at 626 Night Market was the most fun I’ve had running around the racetrack like a crazy person slinging boba.
Fast forward to 2019: in lieu of the popular Facebook meme-sharing group Subtle Asian Traits, we decided to do one weekend of “Subtle Asian Boba” just for fun selling White Rabbit Milk, Pei Pa Koa Green Tea, Sea Salt Ice Cream, etc. It was a blast from the past for me, being able to relive some of the craziness from the past but also comforting to see how far we’ve evolved since those days.
Elton Keung performing magic at 626 Night Market. | Image by @clayconcarne.
Any other future plans with Labobatory or magic?
As things stabilize in my boba career, my personal magic career (@elton) is also important to me. 626 Night Market gave me a spot to perform magic to people walking by which is quite exciting. It’s a safe environment to “work the streets” in a place that I have a long history with and comfortable in. With the second Labobatory store ongoing, it will be some time before I can refocus time and energy on the art of magic. Except we are already hosting the store’s first Magic Jam this Thursday, 11/21 at 8pm with magician and America’s Got Talent winner Shin Lim (@ShinLimMagic).
Written by Holly Nguyen (@tableflipemoji), PR & Marketing Manager at 626 Night Market.
The $5 Dollar Menu for August 30-September 1
5 dolla make you holla! Here is our $5 Dollar Menu for the last 626 Night Market event of the year. Available at participating vendors only. While supplies last. See you this weekend!
5 dolla make you holla! Here is our $5 Dollar Menu for the last 626 Night Market event of the year. Available at participating vendors only. While supplies last. See you this weekend!
AJAJ Cafe: Mochi Donuts (6 pcs), Plain Garlic Noodle, or Cup of Carne Asada Fries
BUNSO: Sisig Tots, Adobo Tots, Lumpia, Cantaloupe Juice, Watermelon Juice
Cafe 949: Vietnamese Coffee, Matcha Milk Tea, Popping Fish Balls, Garlic Noodles
Gangnam Food: Noodle in Seaweed
Ice Cream Garden: Tomato Basil Bisque
Ice Land: Fish waffle, Drink, or Shaved Ice
Little Fluffy Head Cafe: Pouch Boba Tea (Boba in a Pouch)
Longffle on a Stick: Rainbow Cheese Dog
Nikuman-ya: Hoji-cha Soy Latte, Matcha Soy Latte
Norigami: Crispy sushi appetizer (3 pc)
Paraiso Juice Bar: Esquites (corn off the cob) Classic & Hot Cheetos
QQ Ball: Puffy Cake with Ice Cream (2 pcs special)
Rockin Gyoza: Tempura Ice Cream
San Diego Scratch BBQ: Smoked Chicken Leg Quarter
SVR BBQ: Plain Garlic Noodles, Black Jelly Dessert
Sweet Lab Bakery: Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich
Tamago Sando: Original Okinawa Tamago Spam Sando (sandwich)
Tenori: All Musubis $5 each
The Sweet Stop: Mini Funnel Cake, Nachos
Save the $5 Menu images to your phone!
The $5 Dollar Menu for August 9-11
Back by popular demand, here is our $5 Dollar Menu for this weekend! Available at participating vendors only. While supplies last. See you soon and come fat, leave fatter!
Back by popular demand, here is our $5 Dollar Menu for this weekend! Available at participating vendors only. While supplies last. See you soon and come fat, leave fatter!
BRULEE: Classic Creme Brulee
BUNSO: Sisig Tots, Adobo Tots, Lumpia, Cantaloupe Juice, Watermelon Juice
Cafe 949: Vietnamese Coffee, Matcha Milk Tea, Popping Fish Balls, Garlic Noodles
Calamaki: Charcoal Roasted Sweet Potato with arugula pistachio pesto, balsamic vinegar and pickled red onion or Signature Potato Salad with roasted garlic, parsley aioli and lemon zest (small size)
Cheezy Meaty: Roti Cheese Puff
Chimeow: Shrimp Spring Rolls
Cinnaholic: Gigantic Cookie
Gangnam Food: Noodle in Seaweed
Grill City: Pork or Chicken BBQ on a stick
Hamimo Small Things: Buttons, Stickers and Postcards - mix and match any 3 for $5
Ice Cream Garden: Tomato Basil Bisque
Ice Land: Fish waffle, Drink, or Shaved Ice
LaoMazing Eats: Mini Papaya Salad, Roti, Noodles
Longffle on a Stick: Rainbow Cheese Dog
Nikuman-ya: Hoji-cha Soy Latte, Matcha Soy Latte
Norigami: Crispy sushi appetizer (3 pc)
Paraiso Juice Bar: Esquites (corn off the cob) Classic & Hot Cheetos
QQ Ball: Puffy Cake with Ice Cream (2 pcs special)
Rockin Gyoza: Tempura Ice Cream
San Diego Scratch BBQ: Smoked Chicken Leg Quarter
Sweet Lab Bakery: Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich
SweetHoney Dessert: Fish Balls, all dessert drinks
Tamago Sando: Original Okinawa Tamago Spam Sando (sandwich)
Tenori: Spam Musubi, KBBQ Musubi, Pork Belly Musubi, Unagi Musubi, Spicy Salmon Musubi, Tuna with Mayo Musubi, Mentai Musubi, Spicy Tuna Musubi
The Sweet Stop: Mini Funnel Cake, Nachos
Save the $5 Menu images to your phone!
626 August 9-11 Event Directory Released
Turn up the heat with WEEKEND THREE! We’ll be back August 9-11 at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Event Directory with all our merch, crafts and food vendors is here. Bring out your friends and family!
Turn up the heat with WEEKEND THREE! We’ll be back August 9-11 at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Event Directory with all our merch, crafts and food vendors is here. Event Directory with all our merch, crafts and food vendors is here. Bring out your friends and family!
626 July 12-14 Event Directory Released
Who’s ready for WEEKEND TWO? If you missed out last week, we’ll be back July 12-14 at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Event Directory with all our merch, crafts and food vendors is here. See you soon and bring on the memories!
Who’s ready for WEEKEND TWO? If you missed out last week, we’ll be back July 12-14 at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Event Directory with all our merch, crafts and food vendors is here. High resolution PDF also available in the link. See you soon and bring on the memories!
Join our events on Facebook and invite your friends:
626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia
Hours: 4pm-12am
Admission: $5 cash at the door only, kids 3 and under are free
Parking: free
Follow us on social media for updates:
Introducing the New $5 Dollar Menu for July 5-7
If you’re headed to our event this weekend, check out our new $5 Dollar Menu to get the most bang for your buck and inches in your waistband! See our participating vendors!
If you’re headed to our event this weekend, check out our new $5 Dollar Menu to get the most bang for your buck and inches in your waistband! See our participating vendors below:
1. AJAJ Cafe: Mochi Donuts (6), Garlic Noodle, or Cup of Carne Asada Fries
2. BBQ Of TianJin: Beef kebabs, Lamb kebabs, or Grilled Squid
3. Cafe 949: Vietnamese Coffee, Matcha Milk Tea, Popping Fish Balls, or Garlic Noodles
4. Calamaki: Charcoal Roasted Sweet Potato with arugula pistachio pesto, balsamic vinegar and pickled red onion or Signature Potato Salad with roasted garlic, parsley aioli and lemon zest (small size)
5. Gangnam Food: Noodle in Seaweed
6. Ice Cream Garden: Tomato Basil Bisque
7: Iceland: Fish waffle, Drink, or Shaved Ice
8. LaoMazing Eats: Mini Papaya Salad, Roti, Noodles
9. Little Fluffy Head Cafe: Pouch Boba Tea
10: Longffle On A Stick: Rainbow Cheese Dog
11. Nikuman-ya: Hoji-cha Soy Latte or Matcha Soy Latte
12. Norigami: Crispy Sushi Appetizer (3 pc)
13. QQ Ball: Ice Cream Puffy Cake Special
14. Rockin’ Gyoza: Tempura Ice Cream
15. San Diego Scratch BBQ: Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters
16. SpooksieBoo: Art Prints $5, buy 2 get 1 free. 2 stickers for $5
17. SVR BBQ: Garlic noodles or Black Jelly Dessert
18. Sweet Lab Bakery: Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich
19. Wa-ii Kamikaze: Fries with nacho cheese
20. White Rabbit Truck: Lumpia Sampler (different types of Filipino eggrolls)
JUST ADDED!
21. Bunso: Cantaloupe Drink, Watermelon Drank or Upside Down Ube Cream Pie
Join our events on Facebook and invite your friends:
626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia
Follow us on social media for updates:
626 July 5-7 Event Directory Released
ONE MORE WEEK until the first 626 Night Market season of the year! Event Directory with all our merch, crafts and food vendors is here. See you soon and bring on the memories!
ONE MORE WEEK until the first 626 Night Market season of the year! Event Directory with all our merch, crafts and food vendors is here. High resolution PDF also available in the link. If you didn’t see our last post about new vendors this year, you can read it here. See you soon and bring on the memories!
Join our events on Facebook and invite your friends:
626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia
Follow us on social media for updates:
2019 Media Tasting Preview Event Recap
It’s 626 SZN! Summer is finally here and the hype (and the hunger) is real. We hosted a media preview tasting event at Santa Anita Park and invited the most highly anticipated new vendors and returning vendors with new concepts for the 2019 season. Check it out!
Ooo, food! Image by @housenguyen.
It’s 626 SZN! Summer is finally here and the hype (and the hunger) is real. We hosted a media preview tasting event at Santa Anita Park and invited the most highly anticipated new vendors and returning vendors with new concepts for the 2019 season. Note that vendors will not be at all event dates but certain ones based on their availability, so please check the full Event Directory before each event to see if they will be there on the dates you are planning to attend. Check it out!
La Cuillère Gourmet
Quite the spread from La Cuillère Gourmet! Image via @housenguyen.
Have you ever tried escargot? If not, you will have a chance from new vendor La Cuillère Gourmet! Escargot de Bourgogne, or Burgundy Snails, are an iconic dish of Burgundy and French gastronomy. The main ingredients are garlic, herbs and butter, paired with freshly-baked crusty bread. We also sampled the Popelini Cream Puff stuffed with chocolate cream, gigantic macarons, and Merguez Sandwiches (a popular French street food) with spicy lamb sausage, crispy fries and super melty raclette cheese. They will be at the 626 August 9-11 event. Ooh la la!
Little Fluffy Head Cafe
Image via @nomsandbeyond.
Little Fluffy Head attended a 626 Night Market event last year, but joined later and missed the media event so we invited them out this year. The cheese tea trend is going strong at the moment and a must try! Started in Taiwan in about 2010, cheese tea is not cheese with tea but a cold tea base topped with foamy cheese cream. The cheese cream from Little Fluffy Head is made fresh daily with real cheese, real whipping cream, milk and pink salt for the sweet and salty taste mixed with earthy and grassy flavor of the tea. You mix and match your tea base such as Milk tea or Matcha with toppings such as Boba, Crushed Oreo, Ground Cocoa Powder, Salted Caramel Crunch, White Chocolate Crunch, or Coconut Flakes. They will be at the 626 July 5-7 and August 30-September 1 dates.
Main Chick Hot Chicken
Image via @housenguyen.
Nashville hot chicken is trending at the moment, so we are happy to have new vendor Main Chick Hot Chicken! They’re bringing on the heat with their spicy and perfectly crispy chicken Sandwiches and Tenders with sides such as Fries, Toast, Slaw, and Main Chick dipping sauce. Catch them at the OC August 23-25 event!
Nachos Lab
The Cloud 9 dessert nacho by @annikayip.
You've tried nachos, but have you ever tried dessert nachos? Check out the debut of Nachos Lab! This colorful confection is the Cloud 9 with circus ice cream, cotton candy, sprinkles and glitter. They will also have the Shorty Got Cake, S'mores and Mama's Pie. Find them at the 626 July 12-14 event!
Rice & Nori
Onigiri and musubi by @sharewithanny.
Rice & Nori takes onigiri and musubi to the next level. These Instagram-worthy snacks look like anime food and come in flavors such as Spam & Egg, Sweet & Spicy Bacon Avocado, Salmon Yuzu Miso, Mentaiko (spicy caviar) Avocado, Spicy Lobster Shrimp, Uni Cheese& Ikura and more. They will also serve Pineapple, Yuzu Ice Tea, Lychee Lemonade, Red Shiso Lemonade and Matcha Horchata to complete your meal. Look for them at 626 July 12-14 and 626 August 9-11.
RKKN Cheese Wheel Noodle
Image via @nomsandbeyond.
RKKN is a veteran vendor, the one who made the pho tacos and garlic crab fries 626 Night Market classics. They have been testing a new concept called the Cheese Wheel Noodle, inspired by cheese wheel pasta in Italy, in which a cheese wheel made of a full round of Parmigiano-Reggiano is partially hollowed out into a bowl and pasta or risotto is placed inside the bowl and tossed while the cheese slowly melts and combines with the pasta. RKKN’s version uses thin, curly noodles more akin to that of ramen noodles instead of pasta but their 50 pound cheese wheels are imported straight from Italy. Flavors include Garlic cheese crab noodles, Truffle cream noodles, Prosciutto noodles and Lobster cheese noodles. If you’re a cheese lover, this cannot be missed! RKKN will be at all events but check to see which of their multiple booths is specifically for the Cheese Wheel Noodle.
Scoops On Tap
Cheers to beers! Image via @eatswithashley.
Beer and ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven! New vendor Scoops On Tap is bringing their beer-infused ice cream to our event with flavors such as Sapporo Green Tea with organic cream and milk base, organic Match Green Tea, infused with Sapporo; and Ballast Point Blackberry Buttermilk with organic cream and milk base, organic buttermilk, Marion blackberries, and infused with Sour Wench from Ballast Point. Their booth setup is pretty sweet as well with a bar counter where you can sample flavors to go with the boozey theme. Scoops On Tap will also have ice cream that is not beer-infused and vegan options. They will be at 626 July 12-14, 626 August 9-11 and OC August 23-25.
Spice Bites
Image via @spicebitesfood.
Step right up for this unusual crossover of Indian and Mexican fusion food! Spice Bites will have tacos, flauta and tikka tots. Each have a choice of Indian or Mexican seasoned meat such as chorizo or chicken, or vegetarian options such as mushroom, hominy, jackfruit, black beans or paneer cheese. Everything is served with Indian chutneys made with cilantro, dates and tamarind or Mexican cremas made with cilantro, avocado or masala. Catch them at the 626 August 30-September 1 event!
The Golden Marrow
Image via @mrfoodie4life.
The creators behind The Golden Marrow are the same people behind Honey Belle, selling natural soaps and skincare at our events before teaming up with a chef from popular Los Angeles restaurant Republique to make their first foray into food. Bone marrow comes from beef bones of the femur bone and is a succulent food source high in protein and fats. The femur bone is split in half, roasted with an open flame, and then drizzled with house-made sauces and specially-paired toppings for a burst of flavor. Flavors are the Korean, marrow glazed and roasted with Korean spicy gochujang, and topped with scallions, torched kimchi, and chilli salt; the Bacon, marrow glazed and roasted with slow-cooked bacon jam, cracked pepper, and topped with chives; and the Garlic, marrow glazed and roasted with house-made black garlic oil, topped with garlic aioli, fried garlic chips, and gold foil. You eat it by scraping the marrow off the bone and mixing it with the crispy, buttery egg dumplettes. They will be at 626 July 5-7, 626 July 12-14, OC August 23-25 and 626 August 30-September 1.
Titas of Manila Filipino Kitchen
Filipino street food spread with food porn YouTuber @twaydabae.
Titas of Manila Filipino Kitchen is a new concept by returning vendor Kickin’ Balls. On top of selling Filipino street food such as fish balls, squid balls, lobster balls, balut, skewers such as chicken, pork or isaw and sisig garlic rice with pork teriyaki or adobo, they will also have ube crinkles, ube leche flan, ube macarons, and more! Titas of Manila with all the ube desserts will be at 626 August 30-September 1 and Kickin’ Balls with all the street foods will be at all the 626 events.
Wanderlust Creamery
Image via @foodie_mary.
Image via @housenguyen.
This is Wanderlust Creamery’s first year at our events and they will be at all OC and 626 events. They are known for their deliciously creamy ice cream and ice cream bars called “Escape Bars” in interesting flavors inspired by travel. Their White Rabbit candy flavor also went viral on social media and is a big hit! Flavors include Ube Malted Crunch with Sweet purple yam, malted milk ice cream, crunchy malted milk pieces; Sticky Rice + Mango, a vegan and dairy-free ice cream made of housemade rice milk and coconut cream, swirled with Alphonso mango puree; Japanese Neapolitan, a trio of Japanese classics: matcha, hojicha, and black sesame ice creams; The White, an intensely milky ice cream inspired by Chinese White Rabbit candies; and Sakura, grassfed milk and cream infused with preserved Japanese cherry blossoms.
Thanks to all the vendors and media who came out! We look forward to having you at our events!
Join our events on Facebook and invite your friends:
626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia
Follow us on social media for updates:
2019 Vendor Sign Ups Now Open
Got an idea for the next crazy food trend? Are your tees or plushies so dang cute that everyone and their grandma should have one? We're looking for a diverse range of food, arts and crafts vendors for our hottest season yet!
Got an idea for the next crazy food trend? Are your tees or plushies so dang cute that everyone and their grandma should have one? We're looking for a diverse range of food, arts and crafts vendors for our hottest season yet!
Since we began our events in 2012, we supported both local businesses and entrepreneurs who are just starting out. Many of our vendors start out as a booth at our events and eventually open their own restaurant, food truck or retail store! Others who already own businesses use our events to meet new potential customers and gain marketing exposure or test out new business concepts and products.
A few success stories include our vendor Takoyaki Tanota, who makes the savory ball-shaped Japanese street snack fresh at our events and whose popularity garnered them some of the longest lines. They opened a physical location last year in Little Tokyo, which we reviewed here.
Making tasty takoyaki at Takoyaki Tanota. Photo by John Truong.
Honeybelle started as a home-based business selling soap bars made with natural ingredients on their social media and online shop. As a vendor at our events, they were able to meet new customers and test new products, eventually expanding their skincare line to face, lip and body products. Today, their products are in 1000+ stores across the world.
Natural skincare products from Honeybelle. Photo by Brian Fung.
A 626 Night Market team member reached out to Pascual Productions after seeing some of their art on Etsy. They became a regular vendor at our Art Walk, gaining fans of their anime and video games-inspired watercolor prints. You are bound to run into them now at many anime and comic conventions across the U.S.
Pascual Productions at OC Night Market. Photo by Andrew Ge.
Our vendors make our events. 626 Night Market is your platform, your sounding board and your family. The entire 626 Night Market team is here for you if you need suggestions for your new concept, marketing tips or a food taster 😉.
What are you waiting for? Join the Night Market Fam today and sign up here.
626 June 29 - July 1 Event Directory Dropped!
Overwhelmed by all the food choices? Plan your visit before you go!
Photo by @smellypanda.
Overwhelmed by all the food choices? Plan your visit before you go! Find the Event Directory here and also the printable high resolution PDF. Still working on the Vendor Lineup as there are many more vendors here than at OC Night Market, so it's taking longer than anticipated 😵😵. Keep checking that for updates!
Go to Event Info for all questions related to admission, parking, venue info, etc. Save money with exclusive deals from participating vendors with the Coupon Card.
See y'all soon this weekend!