Pleasanton Farmers' Market — Attraction in Pleasanton

The Pleasanton Farmers’ Market has become a core part of my weekend routine, especially in the summer. I get the majority of my produce there when everything’s in season—it’s super fresh, and the prices are way better than the Peninsula markets I’ve been to. It just feels better buying directly from the people growing the food, and you can actually taste the difference.

There’s usually live music going, which gives the whole market this relaxed, community vibe. It’s never too chaotic, and the pace is perfect for a slow morning. There’s also a good mix of vendors—beyond fruits and vegetables, you’ll find fresh bread, local honey, flowers, eggs, and a few solid prepared food stalls if you want to grab a snack or lunch.

I usually start with a coffee at Inklings, do a few loops around the stalls, and end up filling my tote bag with more than I planned (especially when stone fruit is in season). Sometimes I stick around to listen to music or meet up with a friend. It’s not over-produced or trendy—just a genuinely good market that’s consistent, easy to enjoy, and something I really look forward...

I think this market is one of the biggest in the East Bay. It offers a great variety of fruit, vegetables, nuts, baked goods (bread, cookies, etc.), seafood & meat & smoked salmon, popcorn, and Roli roti of course (there's almost always a long line, just FYI).

This is a very busy market and it gets crowded especially on a sunny day. But it's such a great place for kids. There are musical performances, free samples, and a balloon guy to entertain the kids. They will love it!

Tips:

1. Get some alfajores from Passion Pastry ($7 for 8 amazing cookies) - the vendor's mom makes all of their delicious cookies but the alfajores are my favorite. Ask for a sample, they are mini versions of cookies they sell and are absolutely adorable!!
2. Bring cash (always a good idea for Farmer's market) as some vendors (ex. pasta, etc.) that either only take cash or prefer it
3. Parking can be tricky. I drove down Bernal and made a left on First St and found parking. But it may also be a good idea to park in...

This market used to be one of my "Go-To" markets, it was one of the larger markets, but its since decreased in size and available farmers booth.

There used to be options amongst booths, so maybe two or three vendor booths would carry berries. But as of recently there was only one booth with berries causing customers to line up, which ends up blocking access to other booths.

For the most part the food booths variety are pretty decent. I don't have the capabilities to cook where I currently live so, frequenting this market or any others has significantly decreased. I go when I need an item and can cook or consume it w/in a couple of days.

It can get busy and some of the shoppers are rude, pushy, arrogant and just not considerate of someone else's space.

Parking is pretty easy, there are a few lots and street...