Tips for the Rochester NY Public Market

Visiting the Rochester public market is viewed as a crucial experience for the true Flower City resident. Ask any frequenter of the Rochester farmers market, and they’ll be able to detail their favorite stops, booths, and purchases with relative ease. But, where does that leave the first time peruser? If you’re looking to go public marketing Rochester residents are sure to have some recommendations. Here’s one recommended Saturday morning route for a Rochester farmers market newbie.

1. Make a plan.

There is a ton of stuff at the Rochester NY public market, and going in with a list is one of the best favors you can do for yourself. It’s not as critical if you’re just browsing, but for those of us who do a good chunk of our grocery shopping at the Rochester farmers market, going in without a list is just crazy. Write down which vegetables and fruits you need, and if you’re really on top of your game, write down how much they cost at the grocery store.

2. Come prepared.

Bring some of your own reusable bags. Everything you buy will be put into a plastic one, and you really don’t want to be hauling around a zillion plastic bags.If you’ve got a little one, that stroller can be a good place for storing bags. Don’t forget to bring cash, too. Though most of the businesses on commission row will take cards, the vendors in the main part of the market don’t, and the ATM in the bread shop has a usage fee.

3. Sustenance

When going public marketing Rochester residents know that you can’t get started until you’ve filled your belly. How else are you going to resist the smell from that amazing roasted cinnamon nut stand? On a side note, you probably should get some, because they’re fabulous. Anyway, there’s two fantastic recommendations for public marketing Rochester folks. The empanada stand, on the South end next to the indoor component of the market, is a local favorite for many and boasts plenty of fillings. Others prefer to go the breakfast sandwich route, hitting up the North side on Commission Row for coffee and a sandwich. Though this writer belongs to the breakfast sandwich camp and goes for the breakfast special at the cheese shop, she can attest to the good things going on at the empanada stand.

4. Browse first

There’s no worse feeling than buying the first peppers you see for four dollars and walking a few more feet to see them for two. Walk around and keep a mental note of where you see the things you need for the best price. If its important to you for the produce to be local, look carefully at the vendors’ signage. Some are resellers of fruit and vegetables from other places, and you can usually tell by the stickers, boxes, and the fact that their signs won’t specify the location of their farms. After you’ve made the circuit and found the best prices, go back and make your purchases.

Rochester public marketing is a pretty popular activity, so don’t be surprised by the crowds, especially during peak season in the spring, summer, and early fall. Public marketing Rochester citizens come out in droves to save money on local produce and to enjoy the company of other Rochesterians.