Best Farmers Markets in Miami
There’s not much better than a leisurely weekend morning at the farmers market.
It’s not just for the food - although that is a huge part of it - but also for the community. Instead of rushing through the grocery store to check items off a list, farmers markets are an opportunity to connect with neighbors and support local farmers and entrepreneurs.
There’s no shortage of these markets in Miami so my husband and I have been taking our dog Bootsie to check them out and find a favorite. I admit that I have a peculiar obsession with mushrooms, so I’m on the hunt for those as well as cheese, local flowers and produce that displays well in a bowl on my dining room table. Superficial, yes, but luckily vegetables that look interesting also taste good.
There’s not a clear favorite just yet, but here is what we’ve enjoyed so far:
Vizcaya Village Farmers Market (Sundays, 9am-2pm): It was rainy when we went, so it was a bit bedraggled, but on nice days this is perfect for the boho couple looking for a morning ramble. I found the promised land of mushrooms at Gratitude Garden Farm so it was well worth the trip, especially for the “Hen of the Woods” which I can never resist. Vizcaya is a charming neighborhood - tack on a visit to the museum and gardens for even more romance.
Pinecrest Farmers Market (Sundays, 9am-2pm): This market is in a gorgeous location and is well-run with lots to do - ideal for the professional couple with kids and a dog. There’s a desirable selection of fruits and veggies, and of course mushrooms, but my favorite food stand sold ceviche and guacamole. Other highlights: organic james from Gable Delight; treats for Bootsie at The Dog Deli; and amazing tropical plants for great prices from the Three Plant Ladies. Get there early to try and beat the line if you want the breakfast bowls from Eat Da Bone BBQ.
Legion Park Farmers Market (Saturdays, 9am-2pm): The 10am yoga class sets the vibe for this market - slower, friendly and laid back. My favorite purchase was the pickles from Gypsy Hidden Farm, although I was also enamored with the Mondepice stand, a spice-scented wonder of color where I bought sumac. I’ll be back for the vegan soups from a wonderful Jamaican seller, and for something from the Florida Fresh Meat Company (selling an impressive selection of humanely raised organic chicken, duck along with fresh eggs).
The next market on my list happens in Coconut Grove and is probably one of the most popular. Run by Glaser Organic Farms, this one includes an expansive salad bar, raw food pizzas, jarred foods and, of course, no shortage of dessert. Not to mention many non-food vendors selling jewelry, clothes and so much more. There are around 85 vendors in all.
The Grove market is another excellent location because when you wrap up shopping, you can take a stroll through the neighborhood and stop for brunch at one of the restaurants in the CocoWalk, or pick up something to read at Books and Books.
Given the popularity of that location, I was sad to read in the Miami Herald that the future of this market is up for debate. There is growing interest and challenges from developers who want to use the greenspace for new builds. It’s a problem that longtime residents and newbies alike must contend with, and come together on: protecting Miami institutions that keep the city a community.
In helping to preserve Miami, I encourage all new residents to go out and regularly support the small businesses at all of these markets and beyond. Edible South Florida has a new, complete list of all local markets, what you’ll find and where they are located.
Another wonderful way to do this is with a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) membership. I love this one from Paradise Farms, an amazing regenerative farm just outside Miami. Each week during the season, members pick up a box that has 5-15 items picked at peak freshness, including fruits, vegetables, herbs and even occasional special items like edible flowers and - my favorite - rare mushrooms.
Happy shopping!
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Brought to you by Amanda Sawyer, part the Chad Carroll Group at Compass.