Your Dekalb Farmers Market: A Fresh Food Destination

The world-famous Your Dekalb Farmers Market is hands down the best source in the Atlanta area for fresh and hard-to-find grocery items.

Open year-round every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas, Dekalb Farmers Market is Atlanta’s go-to destination for super fresh produce, homemade pasta, artisanal bread, fresh meats, seafood, and much more. Don’t be surprised if you bump into chefs from Atlanta’s finest restaurants shopping here to pick up high-quality ingredients.

The market spans a massive facility with what feels like miles of fresh produce at bargain prices. You can wind through the dry goods aisles, discovering interesting sauces, and don’t overlook the spices section where huge tubs of spices are available at rock-bottom prices.

2. History of Your Dekalb Farmers Market

According to its website, Dekalb Farmers Market had humble beginnings, starting in 1977 as a small produce stand in Decatur. Over the years, it gained popularity and has transformed into a top tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors annually. The market’s founder, Robert Blazer, oversees operations along with his family, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

A frequent complaint from long-time patrons (and first-time visitors) is that the market tends to be crowded, and securing parking can be challenging. Consequently, the company announced plans to expand its space in 2014.

3. Finding Fresh Meats and Fish

At the meat counters, you’ll discover the freshest cuts of your favorite meats, along with unique varieties that might be hard to find elsewhere. Moreover, the seafood selection is extensive, with several live tanks ensuring freshness.

Additionally, there are various specialty counters where you can purchase flowers, baked goods, fresh coffee, and more. The buffet and salad bar might seem surprising, yet it serves as an excellent lunch stop where you can enjoy a variety of dishes crafted from premium market ingredients. The buffet is conveniently priced by weight.

First-timers might notice an unfamiliar smell in Your Dekalb Farmers Market, likely influenced by the large seafood section. It is also chillier inside, so if you plan to stay for lunch or spend an extended period, consider bringing a jacket. However, don’t be discouraged by these quirks; every home cook should plan a visit (or several!) to this market.

4. Beyond Food

Beyond quality ingredients, skilled chefs often rely on their favorite kitchen tools. Therefore, Dekalb offers a small selection of kitchen gadgets for sale, including French press coffee makers, coffee grinders, and essential utensils such as spatulas and spoons. A variety of cookbooks, many featuring hard-to-find recipes, are also available.

Your Dekalb Farmers Market additionally provides guided tours of its facility by appointment.

5. Know Before You Go

• Your Dekalb Farmers Market is conveniently located on the outskirts of Decatur at 3000 E. Ponce De Leon Avenue.
• The market does not accept credit cards, so be sure to bring cash, debit cards, or checks. An ATM is available on-site for your convenience.
• A large recycling center can be found in the parking lot, where you can drop off items that are not recyclable at home.