Starting this week, it is easier to buy local food downtown as Pike Place Market satellite farmers markets open. Continuing its “meet the producer” tradition, Pike Place operates five farmers markets downtown and this year each accepts Fresh Bucks, WIC, SNAP and EBT cards, making local food more accessible for all.
The Seattle City Hall Plaza market, one of the closest to many centrally-based King County employees, opened Tuesday, May 30 and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each week. Though significant rain has meant for a slow start to the summer season, over 15 vendors displayed fresh spring greens, meats, baked goods, fresh flowers, berries, yogurt, honey, fermented foods and more.
Carl Sundbom, owner of Seattle-based Carl’s Cutting Board, makes his humanely raised and locally made bacon, sausages and pancetta fresh for markets and tends to sell out each week. Olykraut, a fermented foods company from Olympia, brings sauerkraut, sour pickles, chili paste, and brine. Fermented food can be healthy for your digestion, not to mention add a lot of flavor to your meals.
“It’s so convenient to have the market nearby,” said Teresa Brown, administrative specialist I with the Human Resources division. “I love the fresh fruit, vegetables and of course, Ellenos Greek Yogurt. They have so many creative, delicious flavors.”
“I’m here for the flowers”, said Tony Hansen, employee assistance program manager with the Human Resources Division. “I buy them for our office every week. It’s a great way to brighten everything up.” Assistant Buyer with the Finance and Business Operations Division, Cami Flake (below right) had a similar idea and shopped from vendor Sua Yang Flowers for a beautiful bouquet of lupines and zinnias.
Stop by the market frequently to see how offerings change with the seasons. Walk the market to get blood moving, spark meal ideas, or simply take a break and connect with colleagues.
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