By: Teri Alasantro
The San Marcos Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the newly developed community of North City in hosting the popular Farmers Market. The site, conveniently located south of the 78 off Barham, offers ample covered parking and the opportunity to expand. North City’s eclectic urban vibe, public art, progressive mix of restaurants, and modern housing sets a creative backdrop for the gathering.
North City’s approach to “Walkability meets Livability” and their commitment to sustainability are evident in the architecture and design of the complex. As proponents supporting a healthy and prosperous quality of life, they inspire and educate the community to support local growers and small businesses. This will also ensure a strong economy and preserve farmlands from being lost to developers.
Each week dedicated fans enjoy an impressive selection of fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables at the San Marcos Farmers Market. J.R. Organics, the largest organic farm in the county, is among the number of local growers. Through their passion of harvesting quality produce, they develop relationships with their customers. Some who believe “JR’s romaine is the best tasting romaine out there due to biodiversity, crop rotation and rich nutrients.” Other local growers include: Rodney Kawano Farms and Behneman Farms.
The San Marcos Chamber of Commerce is launching “Shop With A Chef” a new incentive program connecting foodies, local restaurant chefs and growers in the community.
It will provide professional insights in the craft of choosing and preparing some of the most decadent cuisine while promoting area restaurants.
Friends and Family meet at the Market to enjoy a delicious dinner and entertainment. Some of the tasty hot food vendors include: street tacos from Frida’s, vegan options and Thai Tea at House of Bao. An amazing array of soulful traditional homemade Kenyan food is offered by Rafitiz Foods.
For dessert try the award winning French Macarons, Ice Cream Sandwich Macarons and the mouth-watering assortment of cookies at Big Joy Family Bakery & Café. Other delicious choices are the pastries and artisan French breads from Breadbar.
Some other vendors to check out on your next visit: Max’s Honey House, Baba Foods Hummus, Hot Mamma Jamz, Jerky Brothers, gluten free tamales by Cocina de Tamales, Seas Greens, The Fish Addiction, De Le Ranch and yoga inspired clothing by Peace Om.
Restaurants like Urge, Fresh Healthy Café, Umami Japenese, Newtopia Cyder and Mason Ale Works keep their doors open for take-out.
The San Marcos Farmers Market features a stellar line up of local musicians. Noah Rickertson, a multi-talented singer, songwriter performed last week and captivated the audience with songs by such artists as Eric Clapton and Sam Hunt.
The courtyard provides an inviting grass area with circular umbrellas, hip red Adirondack chairs and benches for relaxing. Other artistic accents include an intriguing lifelike Batman-Playing-Checkers statue by Patrick Amiot that attracts a large number of admirers wanting to participate in the game.
The San Marcos Farmers Market follows all CDC health guidelines. For more information on scheduled events, information on becoming a vendor or upcoming music performances contact The San Marcos Chamber of Commerce at Melanie@sanmarcoschamber.com or 760-744-1270.
Food, Fun, Entertainment! See you at the San Marcos Farmer’s Market!