Hamilton Farmer's Market |
With the summer quickly approaching and an abundance of local produce hitting the shelves, I thought it would be the perfect time for a post about the Hamilton Farmer’s Market. While the market is busy all year round, I know that many people find the whole thing a bit daunting. Which bakery should I choose for my bread? While veggie and fruit stands are locally sourced? Who has the best price on cheese, meat and spreads? Where can I get more of those amazing butter tarts my co-worker brought to work from the market?
When I was a student attending McMaster University, one of my fellow poli-sci students introduced me to the market. He said that he went there religiously and after one visit I was hooked! I enjoyed making my way downtown from campus and continue to go at least once a week on my lunch now that I am working nearby. The market in downtown Hamilton is a bright, bustling and welcoming space and today I will be giving you the inside scoop!
When I was a student attending McMaster University, one of my fellow poli-sci students introduced me to the market. He said that he went there religiously and after one visit I was hooked! I enjoyed making my way downtown from campus and continue to go at least once a week on my lunch now that I am working nearby. The market in downtown Hamilton is a bright, bustling and welcoming space and today I will be giving you the inside scoop!
Hamilton Farmer's Market |
First thing you should know is that the market is located in Jackson Square, next to the Hamilton Library. It is open on Tuesday 7-6, Thursday 7-6, Friday 8-6 and Saturday 6-6 every week. It has been around since 1837 and was recently renovated with lots of windows and community spaces. It is divided into an upper and lower floor, with small to large stalls as well as space for people to sit, eat and relax. Here are some of my favorite stops:
Genuine's Bread House Bake |
Apples! |
Huong Tang |
Fish: Again, you
have many options but I have been going to the Huong Tang Fish Market located
in the lower level since undergrad. I have tried a lot of their seafood and it has always been exceptionally fresh and very reasonably priced.
Romano Cheese Deli & Olives |
Meat & Cheese: The whole point of going to the market is to take your time and try new things. Through the course of many years and many meals, I have found several great booths for meat and cheese (and olives, obviously). For my cheese and olives I love going to Romano Cheese Deli and Olives. The service is always friendly (and comes with samples!) and they have a wonderful cheese selection. They also offer a variety of olives and oils and I usually get a mixed container since they are all so tasty (one of my faves is olives with oregano and celery in oil!) For my cured meat, I usually go to Sam’s Cheese, especially when I am craving spicy pepperettes!
Jam: Here I am
very specific because I love this jam (though I should mention
that I am biased since I really have not explored the other jam options in the
market). At Sam the Produce Man’s vegetable stall in the lower level is a
shelving unit full of wonderful homemade jams. My favorites are peach and
apricot and I have been going to this place for my jam needs for a long time!
Ercillia's |
I hope my market highlights will encourage you to check out the Hamilton Farmer's Market soon!