i know farmers’ markets may be winding down for some of you depending upon where you live but here, in the bay area, farmers’ markets are still buzzing and generally are available till december. some farmers’ markets are even available all year round!
and that is why we pay double the average us city rent.
this city weekly, emily and i are rounding up the best farmers’ markets in the bay area of northern california and dc. b and i love checking out local farmers’ markets for flavorful fruits and vegetables, creative baked goods and homemade cheese.
here are my favorite farmers’ markets in silicon valley:
ferry plaza farmers market (san francisco) : this farmers’ market is probably the most well known of the bunch. it is situated around the ferry building, which houses many wonderful cheese, candy, ice cream and bread shops. the market is available on saturdays between 8am – 2pm as well as tuesdays and thursdays. i find the best assortment of vendors here and always leave with bags and bags of goodies. i especially seek after the amazing flowers and juicy fruits. this is where i tried my first white peach and nectarine. i am completely obsessed now. i love picking up lunch from one of the tents and then meandering through each vendor. this farmers market has the biggest selection by far and what can beat that view?
palo alto farmers’ market (palo alto, peninsula) : this is the farmers’ market we visit most often. it has a nice array of locally grown vegetables and fruits as well as meats and cheeses. this farmers market is unique in that it usually has live music being performed. i love walking through the maze of tents while listening to the beautiful voices of the local musicians. the last time we went it was an elderly all male acapella group. it was the sweetest thing i had ever seen.
another thing i love about this market is the chocolate garage, which can be insanely crowded some saturdays but, offers a great assortment of dark and milk chocolate. i do love my sweets! the palo alto farmers’ market is available on saturday mornings from may to december.
saratoga farmers’ market (saratoga, south bay) : this market is located at west valley college, which is already a great location because of the ample (and free) parking. i love the diversity of this market. there always seems to be something for everyone — from fruits to asian vegetables to fresh fish (packaged before your eyes) to homemade tamales. i recommend getting there when the market opens at 9am because this market can get fairly crowded and i always want to have first pick ha.
okay, i know we usually do a list of 5 but for this edition i wanted to keep it short and sweet with 3. i have been to a number of farmers markets in the area and don’t think that the others compare with the assortment of produce, meats, cheeses and breads. often times those aspects are looked over and it is just a gathering of food trucks and people, which is not a real farmers’ market if you ask me.
i do hope to experience more san francisco based markets as well as the half moon bay market because i hear great things. i will keep you updated on my findings!
don’t forget to check out emily’s dc picks!
what do you think makes a great farmers’ market? what do you normally buy at your local farmers’ markets?
