Palm trees along the shoreway? Never going to happen. Sunbathing sans your parka? Wouldn't recommend it. Buying farm-fresh foods in winter? Definitely. While most farmers markets are on hiatus, we found three that take business inside.
North Union Farmers Market
13207-09 Shaker Square, Cleveland, 216-751-7656; Saturdays, Jan. 8-March 26, 9 a.m.-noon- Look For
- Grass-fed beef, antibiotic- and hormone-free pork, maple syrup, honey, eggs, cheese, winter greens, apple herbs, potatoes, lettuce
- How They Do It
- North Union works with local farms to provide "season extension," using techniques such as hydroponics. "It allows for our farms to grow products like lettuces and other greens all year-round," says market manager Emma Anderson.
- Why Go
- "We are certified-local only," Anderson says. "We go out to farms and make sure they are growing everything they say they are."
Coit Road Market
15000 Woodworth Road, East Cleveland, 216-249-5455; Saturdays, 8 a.m-1 p.m.- Look For
- Apples, lettuce, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, winter squash, onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, butter, cheese, eggs, spices
- How They Do It
- At this community garden and urban farm, many products are grown on the property when in season. Greens sold during winter are grown at greenhouses such as Burton Floral and Garden.
- Why Go
- "This market has been around for 78 years," says Kevin Scheuring, market manager and vice president of East Cleveland Farmers Market Preservation Society. "It's the only farmers market in Northeast Ohio that's open year-round."
Kamm's Corners Indoor Farmers Market
3853 W. 168th St., Cleveland, 216-252-6559; Second Sunday of every month through May, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.- Look For
- Meat, poultry, eggs, cheese, bread, bulk grains, maple syrup, pickles, olive oil, jams and jellies, salsa, hot sauces
- How They Do It
- Seasonal produce disappears in early winter, but the market still has plenty of local offerings. "These products are locally made, high quality and delicious," says Jenny Kelley, market manager.
- Why Go
- "We were the first to start an indoor market on the West Side," Kelley says. "So, we have an established customer base, and we attract the best vendors."
