Every day of the week there is a farmers market somewhere in town. With fresh produce year-round and nearby farms, the journey is farm-to-table every day. Not every destination can say the same (we're looking at you, Midwest and East Coast). While it's impossible to list them all (many are small neighborhood markets), here are some of our favorites.
1. Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
The Ferry Building Farmers Market is one of the best-known and most popular markets in the country; This is where you can truly experience the best variety of Northern California produce. At the Saturday market you'll see local chefs alongside enthusiastic amateur cooks. This is the most challenging (and most important) of the three days. On Saturdays there are also live cooking demonstrations and a variety of food vendors where you can enjoy brunch, lunch and snacks. During the week you will find some suppliers even at lunch time.
2. Alemany Farmers Market
This famous Saturday market opened in 1943 and was California's first farmers market. Here the prices are much cheaper (we often hear people talking about the “village market”). It attracts families from all over the world, but also chefs who appreciate the diversity of Southeast Asia's many exotic ingredients. Don't miss lunch at El Huarache Loco or Estrellita's Snacks.
3. Farmer's market in the heart of the city
This central urban market in Praça das Nações Unidas is another "popular market" where you can also find many Asians and the prices are affordable. It is the only independent, nonprofit, farmer-run market whose mission is to bring fresh, affordable produce from small farms to the "heart of the city." You will also find some vendors selling cooked dishes.
4. Mission Community Market
On Thursdays, Bartlett Street and 22nd Street close and become an outdoor market with a variety of vendors, from produce to cheese makers and bakeries. There is also prepared food such as the famous Roli Roti (famous for its porchetta) and music too. This nonprofit marketplace benefits from several admirable community programs and supportive missionary partners.
5. Fort Mason Center Farmers' Market
On Sundays, Fort Mason Center transforms into a farmers' market, and its proximity to the bay and views of the Golden Gate Bridge definitely make it one of the most popular markets. Picturesque The market is full of traders offering beautiful seasonal produce and cooked dishes, and families. Afterwards, you can take a walk or bike ride around Crissy Field.
6. Bi-Rite Market
A family institution since the mid-1960s, Bi-Rite Market offers quality groceries, alcoholic beverages and gourmet meals to accompany legendary hospitality. With a location in the Mission District and another on Divisadero Street, you'll never be far from this San Francisco gem.
The farm-to-table spirit covers all product lines, from locally grown organic produce to grass-fed cuts and daily homemade treats. Order one of the delicious sandwiches for lunch or ask the knowledgeable staff to help you find the perfect bottle of wine to accompany your dinner. Don't forget to visit sister store Bi-Rite Creamery for a sweet treat - their pies are a local favorite.
7. The Treasure Island Flea Market
The Treasure Island Flea Market is an interesting addition to the San Francisco flea market scene. Known for its young, cool and pet-friendly atmosphere, the market creates a party atmosphere on the lawn with live music, drinks and lots of energy. More than 350 vendors display their vintage wares every last weekend of the month, from one-of-a-kind clothing and artwork to upcycled housewares and even herbs and spices.
The market is crowded. located in a former military base transformed into an outdoor park. The view of the bay is reason enough to visit this market. Be sure to grab a drink and snack at one of the several food trucks and spend the day panning for gold at the flea market. If you're in San Francisco in December, visit the famous Treasure Island Holiday Market. There are snow cannons covering the field with over 20 tons of snow.
