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7 Must-Visit Farmers Markets in San Diego

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at UCSD chapter.

San Diego farmers markets are magical places where foodies from all walks of life come together to do what they love — eat. You’ll find an abundance of locally grown organic produce for prices you can’t beat, along with discovering new unique farmers market eats.

Slip into your Birkenstocks, pack your reusable bags, and withdraw some cash — here are several popular San Diego farmers market finds you must check out.

1. Ocean Beach

Farmers Markets

Photo by Rachael Guerra

When: Wednesdays, 4 – 8 pm

The OB Farmers Market has it all: the beach, live music, and of course, all the delicious eats you can think of. While every vendor at the OB Market is on point, this spicy chicken skewer plate from Flavors of East Africa took me to new foodie heights for only $8.

2. North Park

Farmers Markets

Photo by Rachael Guerra

When: Thursdays, 4 – 7 pm

If you’re looking to add some Mediterranean zing in your life, then you must experience the flavor explosion that is Baba Foods hummus and dips. Find them at the North Park Farmers Market and be sure to sample the your way through the rows of delicious combos, such as avocado and cilantro hummus or the glorious three layer dip, for only $5 each.

Still feeling adventurous? Take a stab at making your own hummus with these 15 tasty homemade recipes.

3. Solana Beach

Farmers Markets

Photo courtesy of @napalifrozenorganics on Instagram

When: Sundays, 12 – 4 pm

Ditch your usual store bought ice cream and try a refreshing Na Pali Coast Frozen Organic treat ASAP at the Solana Beach Farmers Market. These exotic ice cream and sorbet flavors are as close as you can get to ever tasting Hawaii. Dip into a pint of Mac Nut ice cream or Watermelon Mojito while thinking of your next Na Pali Coast flavor adventure.

4. UCSD

Farmers Markets

Photo courtesy of @sebspanini on Instagram

When: Tuesdays, 10 am – 2 pm

Starving in between classes? Line at Starbucks too long? Whatever the reason, definitely go check out all the goods the UCSD Farmers Market has to offer, and let your stomach be your guide.

Head to Seb’s Panini if you’re craving to take your ordinary sandwich fix to the next level. If you’re craving a deliciously pressed sammie at home, give these 17 panini recipe creations a try.

5. Little Italy

Farmers Markets

Photo by Rachael Guerra

When: Saturdays, 8 am – 2 pm

The Little Italy Farmers Market is like the holy grail of San Diego farmers markets — it’s a big deal. Be sure to take your time exploring every vendor and more importantly, and leave no sample behind. My most recent Little Italy Farmers Market finds included a cool iced coffee mojito from Bump Coffee ($4) and a mason jar full of organic vanilla coconut granola from Unison Baking Co. ($8).

6. Hillcrest

Farmers Markets

Photo by Rachael Guerra

When: Sundays, 9 am – 2 pm

Roll out of bed Sunday morning with an empty stomach and run (don’t walk) to the Hillcrest Farmers Market. Once you’re there, stop at Spudz and treat yo’ self to this piping hot hash brown beauty. Try the Hombre ($9) stuffed with avocado, melted cheese, tomatillo salsa, scrambled egg and chorizo.

If you’re still looking to take your hash brown obsession to the next level, this mouthwatering hash brown sandwich recipe will surely take you there.

7. La Jolla

Farmers Markets

Photo courtesy of @wowwowsd on Instagram

When: Sundays, 9 am-1 pm

Thought you knew all there was to know about waffles? Think again. These mouthwatering savory or sweet creations proudly served by Wow Wow Waffle are the belle of the La Jolla Farmers Market ball. Die and go to foodie heaven with the Number Seven — a fluffy waffle topped with tangy goat cheese, creamy avocado mash, and crispy bacon for $7.50.