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Over-rated and a disappointment. Mostly high-priced vendors. Yes, the vendor food quality and uniqueness factor is there, and the vendors selling things other than food also had good quality unique items, but I couldn’t justify paying the prices on anything. $9-$10 for a package of home-made pasta. $5 for a croissant. $3 cookies. $10/pound for chili peppers. Only a handful of produce/fruit vendors. The name is misleading. Maybe there are more farm vendors there at a different season of the year? This is November 2. On a positive note – dog-friendly, plenty of parking and the city provides restrooms with hand wash stations and water fountains.

Haile Farmers Market – Menu with Prices – 5213 Southwest 91 Terrace, Gainesville

Definitely check out Ed W.’s 5-Star review. His review is great and pretty much sums it up: A local market that offers something for everyone from local vendors, organic farmers and innovative artists and businesses. It’s a great way to spend your Saturday morning and pick up unique items to eat, cook, enjoy and take home. We picked up some fresh, living, green wheatgrass to take home for only $2 per unit and it’s hard to find in Jax. Located in the quaint “downtown” of Haile Plantation with plenty of street parking for visitors, they have signs to get you there. It closes at 12pm so make sure you try to come as early as possible because the early bird gets the worm. They are open 8:30am to 12pm every Saturday. Some of the highlights for me: Visiting The Tempeh Shop’s booth since I have a freezer full of this stuff. They offer samples of their Ready Tempeh [prepared tempeh] and the guy working the booth gave me good advice on how to prepare it at home. It’s suppose to be really good for you as it is a fermented soybean product locally made and distributed. The variety of certified organic produce available at this market is a dream for those looking for local organic veggies and fruit that aren’t tainted with pesticides and other poisons. The presentation is beautiful, but you will need to get there early because they do run out of the more popular produce in season. I missed out on the organic beets. Bummer. Here are some of the vendors available here: Strega Nona’s Oven Wood Fired Pizzas, Price Creek Farm, The Tempeh Shop, Rosie’s Organic Farm, Fehrenbacher’s Artisan Sausages, Possum Hollow Farm, Archer Market Garden, & The Green Mango…just to name a few. Check ’em out.

Vancouver Farmers Market – Menu with Prices – 605 Esther St, Vancouver

Fantastic farmer’s market! They are open both Saturdays (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) & Sundays (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.) mid-March through later in October each year (2019 it runs March 16 – October 27). They have a great variety of vendors and products ranging from produce (of course!), nurseries for plants/shrubs/trees, florists (positively gorgeous huge bouquets for as little at $10!), bakeries, sauces, jams, honey, pickles, olives, cheeses, meats, teas, candy, arts/crafts, jewelry, wood crafts, balloon artists, a couple food trucks and other food made-to-order options if you want to grab breakfast, lunch or a snack while you are there. This was our first time there as we recently moved to the area and with it being only their second weekend open for the season we were impressed with how many vendors were there and I know there are more coming as the season continues based on the info on their website. Speaking of their website, it is great with iInfo on each vendor and an interactive map, too. All the vendors were very nice and every food-related vendor we encountered had free samples so you can try before you buy. They are located in the streets which are closed off for the market around Esther Short Park so even it is rained recently it’s not bad since the vendors are on the paved streets (at least when we were there nothing was in the grassy sections). There is plenty of free street parking throughout the area and they also have a paid lot for the market that just charges a donation (I think it is up to you how much to pay). There are public restroom facilities in the park where they are located (but no soap in the bathroom as far as I could tell, so maybe bring hand sanitizer…it’s possible they may have had a hand sanitizer dispenser that I missed). They also have an ATM on site but many vendors take credit cards, too. Price ranges varied depending on the product but were reasonable and in-line with other farmer’s markets.

Downtown Fullerton Market – Menu with Prices – 121 E Wilshire Ave, Fullerton

There are so many reasons to love downtown Fullerton, and this little outdoor market is just one more. First off, do not expect a giant farmer’s marker filled with tons of samples and produce. It is fairly small, with a few vendors selling different things. Here is the rundown: 1. A fruit stand with samples to try — they are $5/pound. White peaches are usually my favorite, but they also have all sorts of grapes, pluots, and nectarines. I love the fruit here, but it is a little pricey. 2. A few other businesses offer veggies, blueberries, oranges and strawberries. Some of them don’t offer samples, and they have much less traffic than the ones that do! 3. If you don’t want to eat, but are in the mood to shop– there are lots of little tents selling aprons, candles, gift items, and random little knick knacks. There was also a booth on dog training. 4. This event is DOG-friendly. Keep in mind Fullerton is super hot during the summer, so bring water and doggy shoes so your dog doesn’t burn his or her paw pads. 5. A few food businesses will be there if you want hot dogs or empanadas. I love getting agua frescas from the Mexican food stands! 6. There is a fun little water fountain/sprinkler thing in the middle of the food vendors that kids love to play in! 7. The live music is such a nice touch . 8. The market is Thursdays only from 4-8pm. I think this is only during certain seasons of the year. You’ll have a lovely time as long as you know what to expect! Again, it’s SMALL but very charming.

Ate’s Filipino Kitchen – Menu with Prices – 900 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville

The best way to get acquainted with a city is to go to their largest farmers’ market. Who am I kidding? They’re all basically the same, and chances are that you’re staring and snapping rather than buying if you’re a tourist since you don’t have a kitchen to go home to. In other words, you’re probably the bane of the farmers looking to supplement their income. Regardless, Jamie W. and I came here on an early morning to get a flavor of what Nashville’s produce would be like in early summer. Sure, it’s not in the pantheon of farmers’ markets like Seattle’s Pike Place Market (review: http://bit.ly/2rvMSFw) or London’s Borough Market, but hey, it was still quite an attraction worth your attention. Parking was somewhat painful on Saturday as the lot is limited and spaces are at a premium. What’s nice about it’s central Nashville location, however, is that it’s open year round until 8PM and it’s next to the Bicentennial Mall State Park, another attraction worth your time. The produce is on display under the two Farm Sheds where 150 farmers sell their bounty, and lucky us that we were there just as the peak season was beginning (photo: http://bit.ly/2JzfJWo). Strawberries were well represented (photo: http://bit.ly/2t1YXUJ) as well as tomatoes (photo: http://bit.ly/2sPusCo) and herbs (photo: http://bit.ly/2t2ZA0d). Another part of the sheds is devoted to Nash Trash, their flea market area where you can find plenty of bric-a-brac and even handmade soap (photo: http://bit.ly/2HFDMNH). There’s s huge nursery, the Garden Center, at one end of the market (photo: http://bit.ly/2t2r0Ug), but arguably the most popular congregation area was on the other side where the Market House sits, an expansive world’s fair of eateries where a Jamie were considering the options – Korean, Indian, Mexican, Jamaican, Memphis BBQ, Neapolitan pizza. We settled on hefty, delicious chicken gyros salads at Chicago Gyros (photo: http://bit.ly/2MjOmgZ) and soothing au laits afterward at Farm City Coffee (photo: http://bit.ly/2Jx4vli). There was plenty of seating in the central area where the rotation of diners was quite brisk (photo: http://bit.ly/2JyPuzu). There weren’t any fish being thrown around nor rarefied produce available nowhere else, but this farmers’ market satisfies most thoroughly. RELATED – Here’s a collection of the sights and eateries that I’ve tried in Tennessee and reviewed here: bit.ly/2v22KmG

Lummi Island Wild Menu with Prices 3131 Mercer Ave #105, Bellingham

Riley Starks the former owner of Willows Inn on Lummi still provides seafood to their restaurant amongst many of the other fine Washington/Seattle establishments, the salmon is of the highest quality and is only reef net fished. This season in particular the fat content of the fish are extra high which means flavor. Ate a tom while visiting many of the seafood restaurants, Riley’s farm and a side I brought home. Going to have to start getting that selection shipped down now that it’s high season

Braehead Farm – Menu with Prices – 1130 Tyler St, Fredericksburg

The best hidden gem! Stumbled across this place while looking for a “u pick” farm with a “petting zoo” & so so so happy we found this place! There are a ton of berries & veggies to pick (carrots, peppers, watermelon, melons, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries & more) entry is free for picking & you pay by the pound. They also have flowers you can pick they’re very pretty & smell so good! They have a kids area out back where you can pet horses, sheep, alpaca, pigs & free running chickens. Lots of great photo ops around the farm. They people are super friendly & nice. The farm is extremely well kept as well. Inside the cafe they sell “pre picked” produce, fresh pies & meats & offer lunch as well. They also sell water, sodas, & juices. Their “berry lemonade” is delicious & I recommend you try it if you go it does get pretty hot out side here & you get a little dirty but that’s expected.

The Fruit Bowl – Menu with Prices – 8767 E Waterloo Rd, Stockton

A nice roadside fruit stand, with indoor and outdoor dining. The fruit is great, about as fresh as you can get, since most of it comes right out of their orchard. Who knew there were so many varieties of peaches?! The rest of their groceries are interesting too. An eclectic mix of local products and stuff from Italy. They are also known for their pies, and rightfully so. Often times, we’ll get them for our holiday gatherings. Their gelato is also good. Their savory products are just ok, but certainly not bad for a fruit stand. This is a family run place mainly. The service is attentive, without being cloying or insincere. After all, not many people can spend the day in a non-air-conditioned roadside stand in 90-105 degree Summer heat and have a stupid smile on their face. If they did, I wouldn’t turn my back on them for fear of ending up in the pies Sweeny Todd-style…but I digress. Bottom Line: It’s definitely worth a stop. Get some fresh fruit or some pie and you won’t be disappointed (although I was bummed I missed apricot season this year…I guess I need to go out there more often or get an Old Farmers Almanac to know what’s in season). As far as the prices, the fruit is usually quite reasonable, and I don’t begrudge them for being more expensive than big grocery chains or warehouse stores. First, their stuff is better. Second, I’d rather pay a couple extra bucks to the local little guy to help keep him in business…it does the soul good.

Corner Produce – Menu with Prices – 1500 Pike Pl, Seattle

If you are looking for fresh produce that is locally grown, this corner produce is the place to go. It’s right next to the main entrance of Pike Market, so it was really busy there every time we walked past. Delicious, fresh, juicy peaches. We tried the yellow and white varieties. Staff picked out two of the best for us to have from the display. Other offerings look gorgeous as well. Since it’s local, fresh produce, you may be paying a bit more, but assuming their peaches are any indication of the overall produce they sell…the quality is fantastic.

West Palm Beach GreenMarket – Menu with Prices – 101 S Clematis St, West Palm Beach

I love the West Palm Beach Green Market! It really adds joy to my Saturday. I love hitting the pavement for a great run and then treating myself to some delicious bites at the Market. In addition to food and beverage, there are many vendors. beauty, gourmet, health and pet items are just a few of the items one can purchase. Produce is vast due to the fact many local farms feature their items. Many natural and organic items are available for sale. A few of my favorite vendors include: coffee, granola, honey, the place with the AMAZING guacamole (now carrying natural juices to include strawberry) and the Cheese Shoppe. I’ve been a dedicated patron to the Guacamole peeps, but stumbled on the cheese crew last weekend. #BESTcheddarEVER I really appreciate they’re not stingy with sampling their cheese. I like to try before I buy so it was nice to taste some of the featured items. I’m going back for the softened Brie…. hello lover! There are plenty of spots to score a hot breakfast and even an all you can drink mimosa special. If you’re into plants and flowers, there is a wide variety at affordable prices. This Green Market is dog friendly too and there are some real cuties who’re on repeat. New this year, the Market is both plastic and straw free. Recyclable bags are strongly encouraged and offered by many of the marketing booths. Samples are endless too so come hungry. Free parking is available at the Evernia & Olive garage. Finally, most of these vendors are Apple & Square friendly. Why not add the Green Market to your Saturday routine.

Downtown Stockton Asian Farmers’ Market – Menu with Prices – 333 Washington St, Stockton

This farmers market is by far the best in San Joaquin county and beyond. Many of the farmers are local and many come up from the Fresno area. These are small farmers, primarily asian (Hmong, Laotian, Chinese, Cambodian, etc.) but also a few other ethnicities in the mix. The fruits and vegetables reflect this: a fantastic variety that reflects whatever given season. Summer is full of many varieties of pepper, cucumber, eggplant, tomato, stone fruit, bitter melon and much much more. Winter full of a myriad of brassicas, citrus, root vegetables and much much more. Pricing is very competitive – $1 per bunch or 6 for $5. The bunches are generous. It is not just fruits and veggies – fresh eggs, balut, live chickens, tofu, soy milk, chow fun, a Filipino bakery, live plants, honey, a greasy Chinese food roach coach and a whole section of seafood vendors. Of the seafood vendors there are a few that sell almost all frozen fish, shell fish and crustaceans – the quality from these vendors is dicey but prices very good. However, there are a couple of the seafood vendors I highly recommend: One is a small truck that comes from Monterey with all fresh fish – typically anchovies, smelt, rockfish, squid but often higher grade fish such as albacore, pompano, halibut and salmon. The other is a truck that comes up from Santa Barbara with red rock crab and occasionally sea urchin. The market is on Saturday mornings – rain or shine (it is under the crosstown freeway). I think the only Saturday this market would not be open is if Xmas fell on that Saturday. I heard Sunset Magazine ranked this the #1 farmers market in California – I have not verified this but I would definitely say it is one of the best I have been to.

Spenard Farmers’ Market Menu with Prices 2555 Spenard Rd, Anchorage

I love the SFM! It’s what a neighborhood farmers market should be…a variety of vendors, real farmers, and Alaskan authenticity. There is no shortage of genuine organic veggies here, and I enjoy watching the growing season progress from week to week as reflected in the choices. Lots of food vendors too, and you won’t go away hungry. The Russian lady is still here from the days when I had a booth at this market over four years ago. I love the cabbage roll soup she serves, and you won’t get away without her pressing a topping of sour cream in your hand to go with the dish. Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop, and A Pie Stop both sell their baked goods here. Bakeshop coconut macaroons are yummy, and the pie place sells mini pies in all flavors. Since I live alone, a mini pie is just the ticket! I like to get a hot cup of Steam Dot coffee, and sit at a table to listen to the local musicians play and to people watch. On hot days, there’s a lady selling freshly-made sodas in intriguing flavor combinations. Have a good season vendors, and THANKS to the volunteers and the generosity of Chilkoot Charlie’s for making this happen!

Iacofano’s Catering & Food Service – Menu with Prices – 1749 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston

Iacofano’s ruined our wedding. We should have known when the owner forgot about our tasting that we should have taken our business elsewhere. But we gave them the benefit of the doubt because the food was good and they worked with us and our budget. However, come wedding day everything they did was terrible. They did not open the stations at different times as we requested therefore allowing everyone to eat main courses before cocktail hour fruit/veggie/cheese stations. Who is going to go for a veggie when they can have shrimp and grits instead? No one! Therefore, we ran out of main course food at our wedding!!! As the bride, I didn’t even taste any of my main course food. They also wore t-shirts and shorts as their “uniform” at my black tie wedding. They broke down the stations very loudly and got in the way of guests as they were doing it. They yelled at my mother when she asked if they could possibly bring more food to the reception (their restaurant was only 5 minutes away) whatever the cost. And they refused saying it was impossible. I would NOT recommend them to anyone! If you hope to have a good experience on your wedding day, take your business elsewhere!