Farmer’s Market Guide

I was first introduced to Farmer’s Markets in culinary school. Not necessarily because the chefs talked about them endlessly and stressed the importance of knowing where your food comes from. But rather because there was a market outside my college building on Wednesday afternoons. The convenience made shopping here a no brainer, one of the perks of going to college in a major city!

Now years later, visiting a local Farmer’s Market is typically part of my weekly routine. I honestly look forward to this every weekend as a way to get outside first thing, spending quality time with my partner and a refreshing change to traditional grocery shopping.

I do encourage clients to visit Farmer’s Market, if they are available in their area, and I wand to encourage you to! I created this guide for first time market goers to help them navigate the market

When to Shop

The early bird gets the worm! You will find a greatest selection right at opening. High demand items obviously go first. It can also be the case that items in limited supply sell out before the days end.

There are perks for the late risers as well. You can often find more deals and discounts later in the day when farmers are eager to sell their products.

Crowds can vary by market but you will often find fewer crowds right at open or just before closing up.

Know what’s in Season

Produce is at its peak in flavor during its natural growing season. For the most part, these small farms only grow crops in their natural season, so it is good to set up expectations ahead of time.

Do a little bit of research to develop a basic understanding of seasonal produce so you know what kind of fruits and vegetables you're likely to find. This can also help you plan some meals ahead of time when you know what to expect.

Talk to farmers

In my opinion this is the most underrated perk of shopping at a farmer's market. You have few other opportunities to find out more about where your food comes from, outside of you growing your own.

Vendors are incredibly familiar with their products which means they can share all kinds of useful information: how it's grown, what it tastes like, how to prepare it, how to pick at peak ripeness, etc.

Never hesitate to ask about a new or unfamiliar varietal you find at the market, farmers are usually more than happy to share knowledge of their crops with you.

bring bags

Not all vendors offer single use plastic bags. Even if they do they are not durable or environmentally friendly. It can also be hard manage several fully loaded bags without handles.

Be sure to bring a couple large durable canvas or tote bags to comfortably carry all your groceries.

I also highly recommend investing in reusable produce bags to store individual fruits and vegetables from the market. I use ECOBAGS, they offer a great selection

Bring cash

It's always a good idea to bring cash with you to the market, preferably smaller bills. Depending on the market/ vendor they may not accept card payments or require a minimum purchase. Often when they do accept cards, it comes at a higher cost to the farmer to provide this form of payment.

Try something New

I guarantee you are likely to find something you have never had before and this is the perfect chance to try it. You have some of the freshest produce available to you at the height of its natural, delicious flavor; be adventurous reach for that exotic romanesco or vibrant radicchio.