In an area where we have one of the world's renowned farmers' markets, it is easy to overlook neighborhood markets. But the truth is that often we don't have the time or the will to elbow through the crowds at the Ferry Building. On the weeks when you'd like to avoid the weekend farmers' market crush, or you'd simply like some drama-free shopping at markets that will provide you with many of your necessities, consider one of the Bay Area's neighborhood markets.
The Heart of the City Farmers' Market, located in San Francisco's civic center, is a market like no other. With a vividly urban feel, this market is a street performer to the Ferry Plaza Farmers' Market ballet. The market celebrated it's 25th anniversary of existence this year, and is one of the oldest farmers' markets in the area.
Where fruits and vegetables at the Ferry Plaza Market are of the utmost quality and are so impeccable they sometimes feel like museum exhibits, the Heart of the City Market's fruits and vegetables are piled high and seem to be combined with seconds and slightly bruised fruit.
The price difference reflects the difference in quality, and bargains at this market abound. The customers who shop the Heart of the City market are the most ethnically diverse that I have seen at any market in San Francisco, and everyone was represented -- from homeless looking for a bargain, to Indian and Asian families, to football fans picking up some peanuts before Sunday's 49ers game.