Five Delectable Farmers Markets around the World
When I travel, one of the first things I research is where I can find good local restaurants and farmers markets. One of the best ways to really get to know a country is to taste their local fare and regional produce, and the best place to find all that and more is at the farmers market.
Most cities have pretty large farmers markets over the weekends (and some weekdays too) selling a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, all kinds of meats and seafood, as well as many other food products. If you are staying in a hotel with a kitchen or an Airbnb apartment, it’s an awesome place to get the freshest seasonal ingredients to prepare your meals. You can also sample delicious local cuisine at permanent cafes or temporary setups in the farmers’ markets.
Here are some of my favorites in no particular order:
San Lorenzo Market in Florence Italy
Florence blew me away with its architecture and art, but what completely captured my heart was the incredible food. I actually cut short my visit to the Uffizi Gallery (probably a sacrilege to some) to be able to spend more time at the San Lorenzo market. The market is right in the heart of Florence within walking distance to many of the hotels and attractions. Beyond fresh fruits and vegetables, it also sells all kinds of meat, seafood and dried spices. When you’re hungry, you can have lunch at one of the small restaurants at the market serving amazing panino con porchetta (roast pork sandwich) plus all those glorious grilled vegetable sides.
Jean-Talon Market in Montreal, Canada
Jean-Talon market, the largest and one of the oldest public markets in Montreal, is a local and traveler favorite. It is easily accessible through the metro (take the Jean-Talon exit) and about a 10 minute walk from the station. Once you get there, you will see just how large it is with an indoor section and an outdoor tent area. They sell beautifully displayed fruits and vegetables as well as an array of artisanal baked goods, oils and cheeses. Open seven days a week, Jean-Talon market makes it extremely convenient for travelers and locals alike to shop for fresh foods as well as get a bite to eat at the many cafes and restaurants in the vicinity.
Flemington Farmers Market in Melbourne, Australia
Open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Flemington Farmers Market is a huge market in the heart of the city featuring fresh local produce and meat (they even have kangaroo meat!). They also have a large food court where you can indulge in delicious Australian, Asian and Italian cuisine.
Gwangjang Market in Seoul, South Korea
This is a traditional market in Seoul that offers a glimpse into local life devoid of any “Western” influences (ie there are no MacDonald’s or Starbucks here!). At Gwangjang Market, you can find fresh fish, vegetables, kimchi, dried Korean spices, traditional sweets, and a wide array of traditional Korean cooked food at make-shift stalls. Most of the dishes have unrecognizable animal innards so it takes a brave soul to try something new, but I’m sure everything is really quite delicious.
Davis Farmers Market, Davis California
Last, but certainly not least, the Davis Farmers Market has an impressive line-up of area farmers and artisans featuring their delicious produce, meats, seafood, honey, olive oils and many different cheeses. There’ll be a band playing happy bluegrass music as kids dance around with glee and adults munching on Mexican food or baked goods at the picnic tables. The atmosphere is that of a giant family picnic where the entire town is invited to.