What makes Montgomery County, Maryland’s farmers markets so unique is not just the food and goods they sell, but the vendors who make every visit a special one. So we’ve compiled a list of 16 People of Color (POC) vendors and businesses at five markets throughout the area so you can truly experience all of the flavors and cultures that make this county so great.
Takoma Park Farmers Market
As you stroll through the Takoma Park Farmers Market, stop by Nazirak Amen’s stand Purple Mountain Grown. His farm evolved from an early journey towards self-sustainability, and he now supports the larger community with his locally grown produce. He offers a bounty of locally-grown dryland rice, beans, seasonal vegetables, grains, and more.
Once you’ve stocked up on all of his fresh goods, why not explore the charming Takoma Park neighborhood? Grab a bite to eat at Spicy Delights, a Caribbean-style restaurant that serves mouthwatering jerk chicken, or Seoul Food, a Korean fusion spot that is full of veggie options and surrounded by beautiful plants. After your meal, visit Bespoke Not Broke and see what unique fashion pieces you can find in their selection of vintage and affordable luxury clothes.
Downtown Silver Spring FRESHFARM Market
Downtown Silver Spring FRESHFARM Market’s vendors make it a special place to visit during a big farmers market day out. Head over to the Dodo Farms stand and meet Niyi, who farmed over 247 acres of land in the Southwestern region of Nigeria before moving to United States. Browse through their wide selection of Certified Naturally Grown produce, pasture-raised meats, and eggs.
On a hot summer day, staying hydrated is key, so walk down to see Eee and Zee Arenas at Lemonade Love, a local women-owned brand specializing in plant-powered lemonades. They create their beverages in small batches, sourcing superfoods from neighboring farmers all while sharing their love of wellness to others. Take your drink and sample some delicious plant-based delights from Sexy Vegie. This family-owned business is proud to offer high-quality vegan and vegetarian food to the community with options like soups, salads, sandwiches, and seasonal offerings.
Bethesda Central Farm Market
There are so many delicious food vendors to try when you visit the Bethesda Central Farm Market. Hummus lovers will fall head over heels for the over ten varieties of dips sold at Zayna’s Delight—a Lebanese-style shop that sells food made from family recipes. Once your hands are full of dips, visit Liz Chabra, also known as Ms.Curry, at Yoga in a Bowl. She uses fresh and local produce to create Ayurveda inspired Indian food such as samosas, palak paneer, Kerala chicken curry, and more. Before you pack up for the day, grab some handcrafted chocolates and hot chocolate mix by Algerian chef, Ismeal Neggaz at Chocotenango. These chocolates make a perfect gift for friends and family, and a decadent little snack for yourself.
Pike Central Farmers Market
Have you ever experienced original Taiwanese “gua bao” with a modern, Korean twist? If not, Bun’d Up is the place to visit when taking a trip to Pike Central Farmers Market. Their fluffy and savory bao buns are the most convenient and tasty walking snack but if you want something heavier, they offer three varieties of rice bowls.
We can’t have you leave the market without trying out the tasty empanadas at DMV Empanadas. If you’re in Old Town Gaithersburg, be sure to stop by the shop for saltados and chicharrones. Brothers Nacho and Marco Almaraz use techniques and family recipes passed down from many generations to make their food from scratch.
Rockville Farmers Market
If you are in Rockville, add a visit to their farmers market to your itinerary. Number 1 Sons are known for their kimchi and pickles crafted by founder Yi Wah Roberts. Their Dilly Daikons, Szechuan Spears, and Sons Kimchi are so tangy and crisp that they will quickly become your pantry staples.
For authentic Argentian empanadas, Charlie Empanadas is the place to be. They take pride in preparing artisanal, homemade products using only the freshest ingredients. Charlie, a native of Buenos Aires, came to the United States in 2000 and started his restaurant so he can bring the taste of his home country to the DMV area.
Before leaving Rockville, you’ll want to visit Mayorga Organics for a cup of coffee for the road, or a few bags to take and blend at home. End your big day out by cooling down with an ice cream cone from York Castle Tropical Ice Cream, an island-inspired spot serving tropical flavors including guava, mango, ginger, and banana.
Share your farmers market day out with us by using #MontgomeryMoment or tagging @VisitMoCo in your photo.
Looking for more ways to experience the flavors of Montgomery County, Maryland? Check out MoCo Eats and 15 Ways to Eat & Drink Outdoors Around Montgomery County.
