Kensington Farmers' Market — Attraction in Albany

First impression, after years of driving past without shopping was that it appears wee. Walking through on a late mid-afternoon revealed a gem of a block jam-packed with all manner of local produce, meats, and food stalls. Is recommend it over the Downtown Berkeley farmers market now that I experienced both. I didn't see a cheese vendor, but turnover may be frequent this time of year? Not sure. Plenty of tempting local bakers with both boulangerie style and bakery treats and loaves. [I emphasize this because I read a review stating the coffee at the market tasted undesirable.] Bonus! I found a really surprising mocha from a NEW COFFEE VENDOR, HIGHer LAND Specialty Coffee. Clearly they know how to make a coffee taaty. I ordered a mocha, which is, in my opinion, the hardest espresso drink for a barista to hand over the counter. After I ordered, I asked them if the turnout for vendors always looks this packed. She said it is their first time at this market. My mocha expressed a good amount of dark chocolate, and strong, smooth espresso flavors and was not diluted with milk. So yummy! I love it when mochas scream ingredients well-chosen. After looking at their business cards and pristine espresso machine, it became clear they originally hail from The local roaster space...

The atmosphere at this market is really pleasant. It's more community gathering then market per se. The prepared food stalls are so-so. The produce is good and good prices. The live music is what makes it really nice. The Algorithm Coffee is a treat. I don't recommend Noisette (the bakery). Their baked goods are never good. They look attractive so I try one every time but I never enjoy them. And they're super expensive to boot. But in all three market is a nice place to...

Lots of food stands, organic vegetables at 3x-4x costco prices. There's usually a band there and the merchants are very nice people. I like the bread and pastries offered. There is usually someone selling local honey, knife sharpening and dinner good stands offering paella, roast chicken, bagels, sandwiches and did I mention pastries and coffee? If you live they you can't miss it. If you live further you should stop by for the vegetable selection. There are at least 4...