Friday marks the first day of Spring and to celebrate new
life and new harvest we are dedicating this post to all things farm-inspired. Did you know that San Diego has over
6,500 farms? In fact, we have more
small farms than any other city in the nation. To fully celebrate the season we are highlighting our
favorite farmers’ markets and farm-to-table restaurants.
With so many farms, you’re probably wondering where to start
to find the best farmer’s markets, don't worry . . . we've got you covered!
The Farm Bureau of San Diego county has a website devoted to
supporting local farmers by providing information of where and when to find
markets all over town.
San Diego Weekly Markets is
another site dedicated to providing information on different farmers’ markets,
vendors, and events. Follow them
on twitter @SDMarkets for up-to-date info and fun facts about local and healthy
eats.
San Diego’s official tourist website also has a list of
farmers’ markets in case you need help deciding which market you want to hit.
Grab your straw basket and head to some of our favorites:
TUESDAY:
From 2pm to 7pm, Pacific Beach Farmers Market (901 Garnet
Ave) hosts a small market just blocks from the shore. This quaint farmer’s market gets points from us for being
located in our favorite ‘hood, not being overly crowded and having everything
you need: fresh flowers, fruits and veggies, tasty snacks, and live music. Come hungry because there are enough
food stands to satisfy even the pickiest eater.
WEDNESDAY:
Known for its funky vibe, Ocean Beach Farmers’ Market
(4900 Block of Newport Ave) is another local market that offers lives music and
is a great place to buy produce and grab dinner. There are tons of food vendors who sell anything from crepes
to ceviches, and most offers samples of their fare. Local artisans will be selling their arts and crafts; this
is a great way to support the local community. The fun starts at 4pm and goes to 8pm.
SATURDAY:
The Little Italy Mercato (580 W. Date St.) spans five blocks
with over 150 vendors selling foods, gifts, and clothing, all in a downtown
setting. Spend a good part of your
Saturday (hours are 8am to 2pm) shopping for everything from herbs to fine
cheeses to beautifully grown orchids surrounded by San Diego’s urban landscape. Mercato also has live music to add to
the fun and be sure and come hungry!
SUNDAY
Everything about the Open Aire Market in La Jolla (7335
Girard Ave) is adorable, from it’s setting (elementary school’s playground) to
its vendors (homemade donuts, potted succulents). Their website is equally charming and informative, with a
list of produce and what time of year is optimal to buy them.
Grab some cookies, freshly squeezed juices, and don’t forget the famous
lobster rolls.
You can take supporting local farms to the next step by
dining at ‘Farm to Table’ restaurants.
These dining establishments are committed to supporting neighborhood farms
and sourcing their products locally, and in some cases that means the nearby
Pacific Ocean.
Located in historic Mission Hills, The Red Door, has the
motto, “We grow what you eat.”
They take farm-to-table dining seriously and source all ingredients locally
from fruits and vegetables to humanely raised meats. The menu is based on what’s in season and they even use
vegetables from their own garden.
Have a delicious meal and feel good about supporting local businesses.
Farm to table cannot get more elegant than
dinner at The Wellington Steak & Martini Lounge. Responsibly grown and raised ingredients come together for a
refined menu that will not disappoint.
Known for their namesake dish (beef Wellington, of course), be sure and
save room for dessert, as they are also known for their banana cream pie. Repose in the sophisticated dining room
after a delectable meal, supporting local farms has never been so chic.
The seafood doesn’t get any fresher than at
The Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill. Caught in local waters, you can order a meal or take home a
fresh catch. "Locals" know you choose your fish as a sandwich, salad or plate and then
select a marinade. There are also
amazing fish tacos, homemade soups, chowders and oysters.
Voted by critics and customers as one of the best “Farm to
Table” restaurants in the city, Whisknladle, works with farms to create a
seasonal menu with the best ingredients.
Located in the heart of La Jolla, they mix French, Spanish, and Italian
cuisine for stunning results. The
inventive menu changes from brunch to lunch to dinner, so multiple visits will
be necessary.
