In an age where you can have just about anything delivered to your apartment from Amazon, and brick-and-mortar retailers are looking at full shelves, one area of in-person commerce continues to thrive in the big city, farmers markets.
Popular with both professional chefs and home cooks alike, farmers markets provide low carbon footprint options for fresh, organic, and minimally processed food while allowing shoppers to speak with the people who helped to bring the provision to the table. And with a diverse range of offerings that include seasonal items like ramps from Long Island, fiddlehead ferns from upstate New York, artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood, and local honey, there’s something for all tastes.
There are 138 farmers' markets operating in the city's five boroughs. In addition to being lively meeting places, these markets often offer live cooking demonstrations, seasonal celebrations, and family-friendly activities. Days and hours vary, so be sure to check schedules before you leave the house.
Union Square Greenmarket
Union Square at 14th Street in Manhattan
Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 6 p.m.
What began with just a few farmers in 1976 has grown to a New York institution that draws 60,000 market shoppers each day. At peak season, it features 140 regional farmers, fishers, and bakers selling just about everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to heritage meats and farmstead cheeses, breads, jams, pickles, cut flowers and plants, wine, ciders, maple syrup, and a whole lot more.
79th Street Greenmarket
Columbus Avenue between 77th and 81st Streets in Manhattan
Open Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Located a block away from Central Park and right behind the American Museum of Natural History you’ll find stalls filled with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that run the gamut from foraged greens like ramps in the spring to corn and berries in the summer. Carnivores will enjoy a unique selection of New York’s freshest fish, duck, chicken, and even ostrich!
Fort Greene Park Greenmarket
Washington Park between Dekalb and Myrtle Aves, Brooklyn
Open Saturdays 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Mingle with hipsters, young professionals, and lifelong Brooklynites in this charming market surrounded by chestnut trees and centuries-old brownstones. Enjoy a unique mix of locally-grown produce, artisanal foods, sustainably raised meat, wines from Long Island, and handmade crafts.
Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket
Prospect Park West and Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn
Open Saturdays 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
In size, Brooklyn’s flagship market is second only to Union, but it’s definitely first place when it comes to location. Located at the northwest entrance to Prospect Park right by the Brooklyn Public Library, and just a quick walk from the Brooklyn Museum, and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden Square, this market offers a huge array of organic vegetables, sustainably sourced meats and cheeses, local seafood, and handmade crafts.
Jackson Heights Greenmarket
34th Avenue between 79th and 8th Streets, Queens
Open Sundays 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The largest and busiest farmers market in Queens draws a bustling crowd of locals. With a wide variety of unique vegetables, spices, and foods used in various ethnic dishes, this market perfectly reflects the personality of one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city.
Sunnyside Greenmarket
Skillman Avenue between 42nd and 43rd Streets, Queens
Open Saturdays 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Located close to Lou Lodati Park on a shady tree-lined street, this market offers a terrific selection of locally grown produce and artisanal cheeses, pickled vegetables, grass-fed beef, fresh fish, and wines made with local grapes.
St. George Greenmarket
St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt Street in Staten Island
Open Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
You’ll have an unforgettable time in the forgotten borough at this year-round market located up the hill from the ferry and close to the Empire Outlets shops. Come for the food, seasonal celebrations, and cooking demonstrations. Or just enjoy the view of New York Harbor.
