When May rolls around, I start to get antsy for fresh, local food. And no, Mr. Judgemental-Foodie-Reading-This, that does not mean that the other 11 months of the year I pine away for frozen food made in some far-off land. It’s just that the spring weather here in Texas (fleeting as it is) unearths an innate desire in me to eat brightly colored, healthy food and to shop for said food only at a farmers market. Living in Dallas, I am lucky that there are several local markets from which to choose, especially in the summer. However, I always start my annual fresh food fest at the Dallas Farmers Market, which happens to be open year-round. I can’t say enough good things about this place. From the breakfast tacos I get walking in the market to the homemade fudge I buy walking out to everything in between (and yes, that does include a large array of veggies, fruits, dairy, and meat), I love it big time. Here’s a little peek at what you might find when you hopefully head there yourself this weekend…
Breakfast taco stand. Watch out for the green salsa. It’s got serious kick, which makes it my new favorite thing.
Live music is a staple at the market. Get a bite to eat, sit back and enjoy.
There are all kinds of places to grab breakfast or lunch. There’s everything from Japanese to Mexican to a Chicago-style deli, but there’s only one place that has Cesar Chavez airbrushed on the wall. Awesome.
Outside of the food hall, in two huge sheds lies the diverse fruit, vegetable and dairy market. There is so much from which to choose that you could walk around dazed for hours, which I think is inevitable on your first visit. Soon you will come to know farmers like this guy and head straight to their booths, but until then enjoy tasting everyone’s wares and getting to know their stories.
But before you leave, head back into the food hall to get some fudge. It is so rich that a little goes a long way, but considering that it keeps well, why buy just a little? Hint: try the Tiger fudge. It’s a winner.