When you head out to your favorite market, do you ever wonder what it would be like to visit a different farmers’ market? I know it can be a scary idea to break a routine and tip your comfort level on its side. But, there are markets, of all kinds, throughout the immediate Boston area just waiting to impress you– really! Related Posts:
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How many food markets do you have on your life list? In a new city, is a visit to the place where locals shop for food a “must-see”? How about farmers’ markets? Do you shop the same one all the time or enjoy seeing the differences among markets in our area?
Weekend markets are a great way to expand your farm and specialty food experience. Around Boston, we have some Saturday and Sunday farmers’ markets that can be part of an all-day food excursion.
Union Square, Somerville
Each Saturday, from 9 am to 1 pm, Union Square (map) turns into a festival of food with farmers, bakers, a chocolatier, and cheese maker. The last Saturday of each month, a knife sharpener is on hand to put the edge back on your hard-working kitchen knives.
After the market, you can explore the square “Where the World Meets.” The Union Square Main Streets Program says, “Union Square’s numerous markets offer a wealth of culinary delights. These small markets are not only ethnically diverse—ranging from Brazilian to Bengali—they serve a surprisingly broad clientele, as well.”
Try the fresh pasta and Italian specialties from Capone’s Foods. At Reliable Market you can explore the ingredients and prepared foods from Korea. La Internacional Foods will supply you with a taste of Haiti, Central, and South America. The Union Square Main Streets program also lists two Indian markets, both Brazilian and Halal butcher shops, and the “Brazilian Market & Buffet.”
Tomorrow: Some tips on exploring the weekend possibilities at more great area markets.
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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Adapted from Penny’s “Fresh & Local” column in the papers of The Independent Newspaper Group
Photography: © 2010 Penny Cherubino
