A long-time fixation on fresh, organic ingredients and a culture of supporting local farmers makes Austin a hotbed of farmers market activity. No matter where you live in the city, you shouldn’t have to travel far to get to one.
Here are a few well-run farmers markets with reliably rich pickings that should be on your radar.
Barton Creek Farmers Market
On Saturdays between 9 AM and 1 PM, the Barton Creek Square parking lot is transformed into a bustling exchange for fresh produce, dairy, artisan snacks, handicrafts, and more. In addition to meeting your needs for fresh food, the Barton Creek Farmers Market is a great place to shop for gifts and decor for your apartment. Live music and views over the city enhance the experience, which is a bit of a drive from most central Austin apartments. On Sundays, the action moves to Lamar and Bluebonnet, where another market is held from 11 AM to 3 PM.
HOPE Farmers Market
Sponsored by HOPE FM radio, the HOPE Farmers Market seeks to raise awareness around the importance of sustainable farming and living. New vendors are featured almost every week, along with live music, to keep the event as fresh as the food being sold. Voted the best farmers market in Austin in 2012 and 2013 by the Austin Chronicle, the HOPE Farmers Market fosters a network and offers resources that make success as a small, local producer or artisan more attainable. Held at Plaza Saltillo from 11 AM to 3 PM on Sundays, it’s just a 15-minute walk from the apartments at AMLI Eastside.
Texas Farmers Market at Mueller
The best farmers market of 2014, according to the Austin Chronicle, the Texas Farmers Market at Mueller is an up-and-coming menagerie of local farmers and entrepreneurial artisans. More than 40 vendors congregate at the historic Browning Hangar each Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM, where seasonal produce, fine meats and cheeses, and baked goods are sold with gusto. Just a four-minute walk from AMLI at Mueller, the Texas Farmers Market is the first place to look for fresh food if you prize convenience.
Sustainable Food Center (SFC) Farmers Market Downtown
Next door to AMLI on 2ND, very close to AMLI Downtown, and within walking distance of AMLI 300, SFC Farmers Market Downtown has a prime location at Republic Square Park. Every Saturday, from 9 AM to 1 PM, more than 100 dedicated vendors set up shop and sell everything from seasonal berries to artisan soaps. In addition to groceries and handicrafts, it’s a great place to grab a wholesome and delicious ready-made breakfast or lunch. The SFC runs four additional year-round farmers markets throughout Austin, including one at Alexander and 17th Street, a five-minute drive from AMLI Eastside.
If you like your produce organic, your meat farm-raised, and your dairy fresh, Austin’s various farmers markets have a lot to offer. Visit and stock your kitchen with healthy, flavorful food while supporting the local economy and the environment.
What is the best farmers market in Austin? Share your opinion below.
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