Central Market can be seriously overwhelming. It’s always loud and crowded, there are over 60 different stalls trying to win you over, and you’re faced with the almost impossible decision of choosing which stands to buy from, not to mention the whole place smells amazing. The market, which is the oldest continuously operating indoor farmer’s market in the country, specializes in regional Pennsylvania Dutch fare and international cuisine with an additional focus on local, fresh produce. Located downtown and easily accessible to students, the market is in walking distance from campus in nice weather or reachable by taking the Lancaster Loop shuttle on the weekend, which conveniently stops on Prince Street.
Next time you’re headed downtown to Central Market, keep these tips in mind to ensure a smooth shopping experience.
Determine beforehand if your visit is solely to grab lunch or to go grocery shopping.
Photo by Hannah Skiest
Central Market isn’t designed just for grocery shoppers. There are stalls devoted to the wanderers and lunch goers, like Lettuce Toss Salads (a make your own salad bar) and PA Fudge Company (which is, you guessed it, a homemade fudge stand). If you’re going for lunch, avoid the rush, otherwise you’ll endure long lines and angry Lancastrians. Plus, if you’re actually buying groceries, it’s nearly impossible to both munch on lunch while buying your organic butternut squash. Don’t attempt to do both at the same time.
If you’re buying groceries, start at one side and finish at the other.
Photo by Hannah Skiest
Weave your way through the aisles and really examine what each stand has to offer before diving in and buying the first thing you see. If you have a solid path paved out before going in, you won’t be as easily distracted. Come with reusable bags, cash (not all the stands take credit cards, although there is an ATM) and high stamina.
Talk to the farmers.
Photo by Hannah Skiest
Don’t see something you want? Ask. Don’t like the way that kale looks? Tell the farmer and they’ll find you a better one. Want to taste the fresh bread? Try a bunch of samples before you decide. Most importantly – ask questions. The farmers know best, especially regarding cooking times and what to pair with the cheese you’re purchasing. Plus, the goat cheese lady will chat your ear off about why her cheese is so amazing (trust her, it is).
Get out of your food comfort zone.
Photo by Hannah Skiest
Central Market is filled to the brim with an unbelievably amazing selection of food, but there’s also a ton of uncommon and distinct grub. Check out the international stands where Thai, African, Greek and Middle Eastern food reign. Buy a smelly, weird-looking cheese (it’s probably amazing). Buy homemade horseradish from the guy who literally only sells just that. It’s really hard to go wrong.
Central Market is open Tuesdays and Fridays from 6 am to 4 pm and Saturdays from 6 am to 2 pm.
Central Market
23 North Market Street
Lancaster, PA 17603