Attending the Memphis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings has been a favorite weekly ritual of mine since the market first opened in 2006.
Over the years, the market has grown in size and vendors have come and gone, but the one constant has been the incredibly delicious locally grown produce, locally raised meats and hand-prepared foods.
You will find everything from jams & jellies to body products to leafy green vegetables to potatoes & onions to locally-sourced honey in the Spring market.
Whether shopping at the downtown market or one of the several farmers markets across town, there are a few things to know before you head out to the market.
Here are my top five tips to help you navigate your favorite farmers market like a pro.
Go early for the best selection. Vendors tend to sell out of popular items.
Bring your own bags. I have a flat bottom basket that I use. Also, consider having a container for delicate items like fresh berries.
Have a cooler with ice packs in the car to keep perishables like meats and cheeses fresh on the ride home.
Shop with an open mind, choosing what’s fresh and in season versus having a set shopping list. There are lots of treasures to be found at a farmers market that you won’t find at a grocery store.
Talk to the farmers. They can tell you what’s special and unique in their offerings as well as give you recipes and preparation ideas.
This is Jennifer Chandler with The Weekly Dish. Bon Appetit!
The Memphis Farmers Market is located at Central Station Pavilion, South Front Street at GE Patterson in the Historic South Main District in Downtown Memphis.
Open Saturdays, April through October, 8 am to 1 pm, rain or shine.
For more information, visit www.memphisfarmersmarket.org.
