Farmers Market Update: Portland
Last week I had the good fortune of heading to Portland for a few days. I made a stop at Kiva Tea Bar and Spa to talk about Foodist and sign a few books. If you’re in the Portland area, you can find books there and at Compote (an awesome breakfast spot).
Naturally while I was in town I had to stop at the farmers market, and I must say I was blown away. Multiple people recommended I visit the market at Portland Statue University, which is the biggest market in the city.
The market rested under a canopy of towering trees, which gave the entire market a lovely green glow and fresh smell. The abundance of seasonal produce, pastured meats and tasty treats was unbelievable, and I have to admit I was a little jealous.
Despite the slightly gloomy weather, spring was in full effect at the market. Such beautiful greens, favas, and foraged goods.
Stacks of kale, mustard, collards, chards and lettuces were on tables as far as I could see. There didn’t seem to be much variance in the quality of farms, as all the stands were equally impressive.
I was really bummed I couldn’t buy anything to take home for dinner, since I had to catch a plane back to SF early the next morning.
The egg selections at the market were particularly impressive. There were quail eggs, turkey eggs, duck eggs, and of course immaculately cared for chicken eggs. I couldn’t help but think of the infamous restaurant scene from Portlandia.
The local butcher scene in Portland was even more impressive than we have here in SF, which is saying a lot. I sampled a few of the cured meats and pates, and they were unbelievably delicious.
With the exception of a few strawberries there still wasn’t much fruit yet at this time of year, but I imagine that will change soon. The vibrant colors of all the vegetables more than made up for it, however, and it didn’t feel like anything was missing.
Even more impressive were the incredible colors of the wild flowers that were on sale at the market. Peonies and dozens of other seasonal flowers were available in huge bouquets for as little as $10 a bunch. It was spectacular to behold.
My only regret was that I wasn’t able to spend more time in the city to take advantage of all the amazing food, but I now plan to make Portland a regular stop in my travels.
What did you find at the market this week?
That’s so funny, during my farmer’s market trip this morning I was just daydreaming about the amazing summer I spent in Portland in 2008. The market at PSU is without a doubt my favorite market ever. And it’s well worth a trip back there in July/August to sample the incredible raspberries, blueberries, & blackberries grown near Mt. Hood. Berries so delicious I would sometimes just eat a basket for dinner…Portland rocks!
I’m lucky enough to live in Portland, and the farmer’s markets are one of my favorite things here! I usually go to the Beaverton market since it’s closest (and huge) but I love market hopping just to see what everybody has to offer. Even the smaller towns have great stuff. I’m glad you enjoyed your visit!
Farmers markets are some of my favorite things. I absolutely love getting as many fresh fruits and veggies as I possibly can and the fact that it’s all local too is definitely a benefit. I love the tips about this Portland market and I look forward to checking it out if I’m ever in the area.
That’s my town!! I recently bought your book and I have started my own Foodist journey! It has been amazing. The CSAs here are amazing. When you are in town next I would LOVE to collaborate, or attend a talk (if you are giving one). I am trying to get my friends on board, and I want to start incorporating nutrition in my practice.