Pinecrest Farmer's Market - A Tropical Delight
If you're seeking a vibrant Sunday morning activity with a tropical twist, look no further than the Pinecrest Farmer's Market. Nestled within the Pinecrest Gardens lot, this weekly event exudes a unique charm that sets it apart from similar markets elsewhere.
Upon the recommendation of my cousin Joe, we decided to pay a visit to this bustling market, reminiscent of the one we have back in my hometown of Kenosha, Wisconsin, known as the Harbor Market. However, Pinecrest's market boasts its own distinct flair, offering a tantalizing array of produce and fruits that immediately transport you to a tropical paradise.
From the moment we arrived, the market's lively atmosphere captivated us. Vendors lined the pathways, showcasing an eclectic mix of goods ranging from handbags to artisanal goat cheese. But it was the diverse culinary offerings that truly stole the show. Seafood aficionados, barbecue enthusiasts, and sweet-toothed individuals alike were spoiled for choice with options like grilled meats, BBQ delights, sweets, coffee, smoothies, and the ever-popular Acai Bowls.
Opting for the latter, we indulged in a delightful Acai Bowl experience. For $15 each, we were treated to a refreshing blend of frozen acai berries crafted into a creamy puree, generously topped with a colorful assortment of fresh fruits and a choice of chia or granola. Additionally, we couldn't resist sampling an almond crescent, adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar and filled with delectable almond paste. Both treats were nothing short of scrumptious.
Despite our culinary delights, a few minor inconveniences dampened our experience slightly. Parking proved to be a challenge, with the lot overflowing upon our arrival. Furthermore, navigating through the crowds initially posed difficulties. Additionally, we found the lack of picnic tables or designated seating areas somewhat inconvenient.
However, our quest for a spot to savor our treats led us to a charming bench near the entrance of the gardens, where we savored every bite of our Acai Bowl while soaking in the vibrant ambiance.
In summary, the Pinecrest Farmer's Market earns a solid rating of 4.5 stars from us. While minor logistical issues may arise, the market's lively atmosphere, diverse culinary offerings, and tropical charm make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a delightful Sunday morning excursion. Just be sure to arrive early and be prepared to embrace the lively hustle and bustle of this tropical gem.
Thomas Corrao Stray Compass...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreThe best Farmers Market in South Florida, and the best I've been to anywhere in the U.S!
This Farmers Market is something truly special, the produce is top notch, but the food is the real star of the show. Zak The Baker has a presence with freshly baked goods, Art Pie offers delightful pocket pies with enough variety to make your head spin (try the BBQ chicken and brie one!), the acai bowls are the best I've ever had and one of the top reasons I keep coming back and then there are the people who go the extra mile and haul an actual brick oven to make delicious brick oven pizzas (they'll make the dough and prepare the pizza in front of you, and they'll toss it up in the air to the delight of your children!), as well as another kiosk that offers slow cooked BBQ, and someone making artisan kettle corn on a giant cauldron! If you are more traditional there are greek and Venezuelan food spots as well, smoothies, fresh lemonade, there's something for everyone!
The setting is another reason why this one is a special place, it's in the Pinecrest Garden parking lot so you have a gorgeous setting, completely shaded by trees and tents so it's not an issue in the Miami summers, and lots of parking (although it does get really packed and busy, but I've never had an issue finding a spot after waiting just a few minutes). When you are done with the Farmers Market you can always pop inside the Garden for a fun stroll, or if you have kids they'll love the playground and petting zoo, and if you are feeling a little tired from all the walking there's a convenient Juan Valdez at the pavilion so you don't even need to pay the entrance fee to grab yourself a delicious...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreMy favorite spot out of several prominent farmers markets in the area, well-organized parking, shade from the banyans to walk under, high quality merchants, tropical vibe, friendly people, lots of well-groomed dogs on leashes whom their owners showcase :) The famed Pinecrest Gardens on the same parking lot, with a huge well-kept koi pond at the entrance: if you drive 20+ min, go for it, but if you are local try a weekday when "nobody" is in and you stroll calmly; also if you are tourists, check out their "go left after entering" loop, equipped with all the human conveniences and attractions , but if you are local, it is better imo to go right after entering, for a jungle forest feel while on the shady solid manmade path, amongst ornate ponds. Ever since the Pinecrest Gardens started charging a nominal fee to enter some years ago , they have greatly improved the guests' experience. You could bring your market food finds to the Gardens, if you want an improvised picnic, the tables are in at least 2 locations inside. The other end of the lot is the community center with a cafe, a library, and multiple classes for kids, also a gym that requires membership. Market on Sundays from about 9 or 10 to about 2 or 2:30, if you have a favorite vendor come earlier as some popular items sell out fast. Overall, a gem of a...
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