B.J. Novak

Los Angeles is often characterized by its sprawl, but Mindy Kaling finds the city's heart within the historic stalls of the Original Farmers Market. This landmark, born during the Great Depression, serves as more than a food destination; it is a chronological anchor for Kaling’s two-decade journey from a homesick writer to a celebrated producer and mother. The Ritual of Bob’s Coffee and Donuts For Kaling, the market experience begins at Bob's Coffee and Donuts, a cornerstone of the LA writing community. She recalls frequenting this spot during her early days on The Office with her frequent collaborator B.J. Novak. Her order is specific and unwavering: a raspberry jelly-filled donut. She likens the divisive nature of the jelly donut to a tuna fish sandwich—it is a choice for true devotees only. The stall remains a rare constant in an ever-changing industry. Curated Curiosities at Monsieur Marcel Monsieur Marcel offers a sensory escape that Kaling describes as completely transporting. It functions as a hybrid restaurant, artisanal grocery, and gift shop. Kaling highlights the vast selection of mustards and her long-standing affinity for tinned fish, particularly mackerel and mussels. While she jokes about her "alleycat" palate, she emphasizes that her preference for smoked oysters predates current food trends, even if it didn't win her many fans in The Mindy Project writers' room. Spice and Sweetness as Community The market caters to every craving, from the massive wall of heat at Light My Fire to the nostalgic aroma of Magic Nut and Candy. Kaling credits her time on television sets for fueling her candy obsession, specifically the accessibility of craft services. However, she now seeks out sophisticated treats like mango chamoy over basic snacks. This evolution of taste reflects her broader growth within the city. A Final Stop at Singapore’s Banana Leaf Kaling reserves the highest praise for Singapore's Banana Leaf, calling it one of her absolute favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. The menu’s bold curry flavors and roti paratha offer a sense of comfort that resonates with her Indian heritage. For Kaling, the market is no longer just a place to afford a meal while missing the East Coast; it is the center of a dreamlike childhood she is now building for her three children.