Carmel-by-the-Sea Farmers Market — Local services in Carmel-by-the-Sea

We so wanted to love this market since we love Carmel. But alas what a huge let-down. We spent money on three stands and interacted with a few more. Everyone was strangely cold and unfriendly. Here’s the most telling episode. We bought a pecan pie from Sweet Elena’s bakery, because our hotel served their croissants for breakfast and they were delicious. The host at the stand listened to this comment patiently and nodded and smiled and made zero effort to engage. Okay that was a bit strange but we bought the pecan pie anyway. Later at the hotel we were told our hotel would serve the pecan pies during the fall and it was very popular. Now imagine our surprise when we tried it later tonight. It was clearly under baked and completely absolutely inedible. My interpretation is that this pie is for one-time tourists while the hotel is repeat business. Another stand I’d warn against is the “humus heaven”. They offered some samples, which were quite mediocre. It probably showed in my husband’s face, the host then completely ignored me (I was asking a question), and just started scrolling his phone with the gloved hands. Needless to say I so regretted taking that sample from his hand! Have to say this is our worst farmer’s...

Loved checking out this Farmer’s Market.

Things I loved: not massive so one could take their time exploring all the booths in a little over an hour. gorgeous flower stands variety of fresh produce Hummus Heaven! Seriously, can’t get enough. the market flanked two sides of a small park (with a wishing pond complete with a fountain and fish!) so it would be a perfect spot to pause and enjoy the delicious pastries or coffee you get at the market or to pause and let your young kiddos race around before heading back in for more shopping. fantastic painted photo ops that added whimsy and charm located right near the library which makes for a great morning regardless of your age!

Things I would change: I would love to see a Bolani booth but otherwise...

All the stars aligned as I’d planned a small window during a busy day of work with meetings. It was a miracle that I found fast close parking. I had my list ready as I knew the popped corn dried fruit strawberries and pies would be there. I got great dried apricots for my upcoming dish of sweet potato casserole for Thanksgiving. And everything else I was starving but everything seemed too much or too expensive for just a quick bite. Someone was selling a grab and go for $25. Whaaattt? But then the salsa lady was selling tamales I got 6 for $24. Good tamales and...