If you're like me, it's a let-down to buy produce flown or trucked in from California, which is what are available these days in the supermarkets, even in Whole Foods, which may have the biggest selection of organic produce around. Some farmers' markets are open on Saturdays, but if you keep Shabbat, your best option is the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia. It's open seven days a week, and it's indoors, so you (and the vendors) do not have to freeze in the open air.
When was the last time you've visited this market? You'll be surprised and delighted by the lively changes there. Check out the Reading Terminal Market website for fun events, including the Valentine Day's wedding of four couples in the center court at noon.
Among my favorite vendors is Steve Bowes of Bowes Family Farm. Stop by for a chat and a lesson about biodynamic and organic farming. He's at the market on Thursdays to Saturdays from 8 to 6 and Sundays from 9 to 5.
The Fair Food Farmstand, run by the Fair Food Philly, offers organic eggs, dairy, and meats as well as seasonal produce and artisanal foods. They're open every day.
I always stop by Iovine Brothers Produce to gaze at their lovely display of fruits, vegetables, and specialty produce. It's where I can get fresh mushrooms not found elsewhere such as King trumpets and hen of the woods as well as the gourmet favorites: chanterelles, enokis, morels, and porcinis.
The Cookbook Stall is also fun, with a diverse selection of books that cannot be found in a general bookstore. Its hours are: Mondays to Saturdays from 10-5 and Sundays from 11-3. If you have a particular title in mind, you may call to check on its availability at: 215-923-3170.
Every Wednesday & Saturday, you could learn the story behind cheese steaks, hoagies, pretzels and other Philly food favorites, and the 116-year history of the vibrant Reading Terminal Market where they're sold, during a 75-minute tour led by Carolyn Wyman, food historian, author, and journalist.
Discounted parking at 12th and Filbert is available for two hours and at least $10 in purchases.
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Among my favorite vendors is Steve Bowes of Bowes Family Farm. Stop by for a chat and a lesson about biodynamic and organic farming. He's at the market on Thursdays to Saturdays from 8 to 6 and Sundays from 9 to 5.
