If you are a New Yorker that depends on supermarkets and local deli and fruit stands for your produce, you are getting the short end of the produce stick. Despite living in a booming metropolis, we New Yorkers actually have over 50 farmers’ markets (the largest outdoor network of urban farmers’ markets in the world!) that provide access to an amazing array of fresh fruits, veggies, breads, dairy and humanly raised meats from local farms. Over 230 family farms and fishermen are participating in this effort. By clicking on this link you can see a map of every greenmarket in New York City and the general area. As a connoisseur of farmers markets I am going to share with you a little guide to eight of my favorite greenmarkets.
1. Union Square Greenmarket (Manhattan)
This is probably the most famous greenmarket in NYC. It has wonderful produce from 140 regional farmers. I must confess that I often frequent this market because of the offerings of a certain cheese vendor. This market is open year-round, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Union Square, West 15th to 17th Streets between Broadway and Park Ave. South. 212-788-7476
2. Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket (Brooklyn)
I like this market when I take my kids with me because it has lots of events for little ones. I also have a weakness for their fresh baked scones. Open year-round, Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Prospect Park West & Flatbush Ave. 212-788-7476
3. Jackson Heights Greenmarket (Queens)
If you are a bargain hunter, this is a fun place to shop. My favorite thing about this market is the wild-caught fish. Open Sundays, June 6 through December 19. 34 Ave. between 77th and 78th Streets between 34 Ave. and Northern Boulevard. 212-788-7476
4. New York Botanical Garden Greenmarket (Bronx)
This market is a fun place to take your friends that are visiting from out of town since it is located in a breathtakingly beautiful botanical garden. I love the cider! Open Wednesdays, June 15 through November 23. Mosholu Gate on Southern Boulevard between Mosholu Parkway and Bedford Park Boulevard. (Inside the NY Botanical Garden’s Mosholu Gate). 212-788-7476
5. Saint George Greenmarket (Staten Island)
This place has amazing baked goods. Open Saturdays, May 7 through November 19
St. Marks Place at Hyatt St. 212-788-7476
6. Park Slope Farmers’ Market (Brooklyn)
This market always seems to have the largest selection of fresh asparagus which happens to be another weakness of mine. 5th Ave. and 4th St. Brooklyn, NY 11215
7. New York City Wholesale Greenmarket (Bronx)
This market usually has amazing prices. It is also a great place to get fresh flowers for the significant other. Unit 65B 800 Food Center Drive Bronx, NY 10474
8. Saint George Greenmarket (Staten Island)
This is usually where I get my seafood. If you are on the island, you need to stop by and check this market out. St. Marks & Hyatt Streets inside theater parking lot Staten Island, NY 10301
