Summary of Local Markets
While you may compile extensive spreadsheets filled with restaurants and must-do experiences, authentic knowledge of a locale can be better acquired by visiting a local grocery store or market – a genuine endeavor!
In the United States, there is an abundance of options that are both diverse and appealing, which is why our team has selected their top recommendations for visitations. These establishments not only provide fresh produce and local ingredients but also reflect the essence of their respective destinations, ranging from a renowned farmers market in San Francisco to a mountain market that specializes in BBQ takeout in North Carolina.
1. Yoli Tortilleria
Kansas City, Missouri
Recommended by Melissa Yeager, Destination Editor Western USA/Canada
Why it’s great: Yoli serves as the primary destination for fresh tortillas in Kansas City – they have even been honored with a James Beard award. Visit their retail location, where you can also acquire delectable items such as egg and bacon burritos, tamales, and agua frescas, alongside their tortillas and salsas.
What to buy: The tortillas are essential, but the Taco Stand salsa comes highly recommended.
2. Cross Street Market
Baltimore, Maryland
Recommended by Brekke Fletcher, Senior Director of Content
Why it’s great: Baltimore houses several of the nation’s oldest markets, with Cross Street Market in Federal Hill being a longstanding favorite. Established in the mid-1800s, the market has served the community with fresh, locally-sourced produce, freshly caught seafood, baked goods, and more. Following a fire that devastated the original building in 1951, the new Cross Street Market opened the subsequent year, recently undergoing renovations that preserve its 1950s architectural features while evolving into a contemporary market with over 20 independent vendors.
What to buy: While provisions can be sourced from Atlas Fish Market (local oysters are worth sampling), Cross Street serves as more of a social hub, making it ideal for pre-game gatherings before Orioles or Ravens games, or to savor delicious handheld meals from Theo’s Banhmi Rolls & Bowls, DMV Empanadas, or Taco Love. The vendors are local Baltimore residents, showcasing a diverse array of backgrounds and experiences. Ensure to indulge in a fresh waffle cone from Takhara Bros, recognized as the best ice cream in Baltimore for four consecutive years.
Planning tip: Cross Market hosts events throughout the year, such as the annual hot dog-eating contest on the 4th of July.
3. Mana Foods
Paia, Maui, Hawaii
Recommended by Anne Zalatoris, Senior Manager, Media Operations
Why it’s great: Mana Foods represents the core of the Paia community, having been family-operated for 40 years. The staff is exceptionally friendly, assisting patrons in selecting from high-quality fresh, local, organic options. They also offer a range of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free products. Stop by en route to or from Haleakalā or while navigating the road to Hana to explore their offerings of prepared foods, salad bars (both hot and cold), baked goods, fresh juices, and more.
What to buy: Everything local! The kalua pork sandwich and mahi mahi poke bowl are excellent choices for a convenient lunch with fresh-squeezed guava juice. For dessert, sample the gingerbread cake with lilikoi frosting or the macadamia nut pie. Additionally, consider taking home some of their homemade granola or trail mix.
Planning tip: Another appealing aspect of Mana Foods is their bag credit program. When shopping with your own bags, you receive a five-cent credit, which can be donated to a local organization that changes monthly or applied to your grocery bill. Mana is also committed to sustainability through initiatives such as using compostable containers and donating compost to local farms.
4. Cashiers Farmers Market
Cashiers, North Carolina
Recommended by Ann Douglas Lott, Digital Editor
Why it’s great: A local favorite is evidenced by its popularity throughout the off-season. In this quaint North Carolina mountain community, there are limited grocery alternatives. Although you can opt for the local Ingles for necessities, Cashiers Farmers Market is the premier choice for delightful products. Family-owned, the market specializes in locally crafted groceries and fresh produce, positioned in the town’s center. Its architecture complements the mountain cabins nearby, showcasing a laurel branch porch railing and a cozy, colorful interior. Check their Instagram for current specials and new arrivals (as well as adorable dog photos).
What to buy: Fresh, local produce is expected, yet the queue at the BBQ takeout window (aka On the Side) is a must-experience. If it’s your first visit, order the classic Carolina-style pulled pork sandwich with potato salad or mac ‘n’ cheese. While waiting, enjoy the company of resident golden retrievers and browse the pottery available. Conclude your visit by picking up a seasonal pie to heat up and enjoy with ice cream after a day of hiking.
Planning tip: Note that due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, which affected western North Carolina in late September, the region is continuing its recovery efforts; road closures may affect your travel arrangements.
5. Reading Terminal Market
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Recommended by Deepa Lakshmin, Director of Social Media
Why it’s great: Philly‘s Reading Terminal Market commenced operations in 1893 to unify local farmers, fishermen, and traditional merchants. Presently, it exists as a twisting labyrinth of countertop eateries, fusion cuisine, and sweet indulgences. Boasting over 80 vendors, it caters to a variety of cravings – from cheesesteaks and Pennsylvania Dutch specialties to ribs, tapas, sushi, gyros, curries, crepes, and Amish-style pretzels. Be prepared to navigate the paradox of choice when determining your meal!
What to buy: It serves as an excellent stop for lunch with a group, allowing everyone to diverge and procure their preferred items. Personally, I always purchase a warm cookie from Famous 4th Street Cookie Company when I visit. Additionally, numerous gift stalls are available: try Pennsylvania General Store for local souvenirs or Bee Natural for quality candles.
6. Shields Market
Richmond, Virginia
Recommended by Ethan Radtke, GM
Why it’s great: Shields embodies everything associated with a neighborhood market. This community-oriented location in Richmond offers prepared foods, local products, beer, wine, and a modest selection of gifts. You are likely to discover a new preferred beverage or treat, often sourced from local Richmond brands. The staff is comprised of community members who also manage the restaurant across the street, Joe’s Inn.
What to buy: The store’s beer selection is commendable for its size. The curry chickpea salad is my personal preference for a light meal or snack.
7. Uptown Farmers Market
Phoenix, Arizona
Recommended by Melissa Yeager, Destination Editor Western USA/Canada
Why it’s great: Located at Central Avenue and Bethany Home Road, Uptown Farmers Market provides an excellent environment for strolling and enjoying the atmosphere. Featuring over 150 vendors, it includes numerous local food trucks alongside locally-sourced produce that offer fresh tortillas, homemade salsas, and pasta. Some chefs even conduct demonstrations, allowing you to taste their specialties directly from the pan.
What to buy: Be sure to acquire freshly made tortillas, along with fresh eggs and bread from Noble and Proof Bread.
Planning tip: If you cannot bring items home, consider embarking on a food truck crawl to sample a variety of offerings.
8. Lewin Farms
Calverton, New York
Recommended by Pia Peterson Haggarty, Photo Director
Why it’s great: This fourth-generation family-owned farm was the first U-pick farm established on Long Island. They provide an excellent selection of local produce (such as Long Island corn and Italian plums) and essential kitchen staples. Moreover, it spans a thousand acres, ensuring there’s always something available for self-picking, whether it’s berries during the summer or Christmas trees in winter.
What to buy: The Long Island corn available late in the summer is unparalleled. Additionally, their mozzarella ranks among the finest I have ever tasted.
9. Le Petit Bleu at Commander’s Palace
New Orleans, Louisiana
Recommended by Laura Motta, Senior Director of Content
Why it’s great: Commander’s Palace, located in New Orleans‘ Garden District, is renowned for its contemporary interpretations of classic creole dishes. However, acquiring a reservation can sometimes require patience. If you arrive without one, or do not adhere to the restaurant’s dress code, simply visit Le Petit Bleu next door. This charming market and take-out café offers many similar dishes without any dress-code requirements. Consider items like turtle soup, gumbo, and exceptional pimiento cheese, along with fun selections such as cookbooks and kitchenware. Arriving early during lunch ensures access to seating within the quaint robin’s-egg-blue shop.
What to buy: The pimiento cheese is essential, as well as the chicken liver pâté and a variety of both sweet and savory crepes. Their coffee beverages are also outstanding.
10. North Asheville Tailgate Market
Asheville, NC*
Recommended by Luis Segovia Reyes, Director of Growth Marketing
Why it’s great: This market exemplifies the Asheville ethos: relaxed, earthy, and composed of genuinely kind individuals. The core vendors have largely remained the same for decades, creating a close-knit, familiar atmosphere.
What to buy: Jam, specifically the Berry Best Jam from Imladris Farms. Cheeses from the Spinning Spider Creamery stall are also exceptional. Additionally, do not miss the sun-dried tomato focaccia from French Broad Pantry. For breakfast, visit Cecilia’s Kitchen food truck for the market breakfast crêpe and empanadas.
Planning tip: Due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, the North Asheville Tailgate Market has temporarily relocated to the Stein Mart parking lot on Merrimon Ave. The city of Asheville and the market are eager to welcome visitors once more for the market’s Holiday Bazaar post-Thanksgiving.
11. Alemany Farmers Market
San Francisco, CA
Recommended by Emily Dubin, Senior Publishing Designer
Why it’s great: Alemany was California’s inaugural farmers market, also referred to as “the People’s market” by San Franciscans. It offers a distinct atmosphere compared to the more prominent Ferry Building Farmers Market, which features upscale products at corresponding prices. Alemany attracts locals seeking the freshest produce directly from regional farmers, marking it as a genuine community favorite!
What to buy: Northern California is fortunate to have fresh produce throughout the year; hence, the selection varies with each visit. Personally, I relish the pomelo and persimmon seasons.
