Late Summer Produce: Best NYC Greenmarkets & Farm Stands
Late summer is a time of incredible bounty in the New York region. The harvest is in full swing, and the city’s greenmarkets are overflowing with the best produce of the year. From juicy heirloom tomatoes and sweet corn to the first apples and squash of the season, it’s the perfect time to connect with local farmers and enjoy the taste of fresh, seasonal food.
Here’s a guide to the best greenmarkets and farm stands to visit during the late summer season.
The Flagship: Union Square Greenmarket
Location: Union Square, Manhattan
The biggest and most famous greenmarket in the city, Union Square is a must-visit. Open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, it features over 140 regional farmers, fishers, and bakers. In late summer, you’ll find an astonishing variety of heirloom tomatoes, peppers, corn, and stone fruit. Many of the city’s top chefs shop here for their restaurants, a testament to the incredible quality of the produce.
The Brooklyn Hub: Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket
Location: Prospect Park, Brooklyn
Located at the northwest entrance to Prospect Park, this is Brooklyn’s largest and most popular greenmarket. Open every Saturday, it’s a bustling community hub where you can shop for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, local honey, and much more. After shopping, you can take a beautiful stroll through the park. It’s a perfect Saturday morning activity.
For a Neighborhood Vibe: Tompkins Square Greenmarket
Location: East Village, Manhattan
This year-round Sunday market has a wonderful, laid-back neighborhood feel. It’s smaller than the Union Square market, making it less overwhelming but still offering a fantastic selection of seasonal produce. You can find everything you need for a week of healthy cooking, from fresh vegetables and fruits to local meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
The Upper West Side Staple: 79th Street Greenmarket
Location: Upper West Side, Manhattan
Another beloved Sunday market, the 79th Street Greenmarket is conveniently located near the American Museum of Natural History. It’s a great place for families to shop for fresh, local food. In late summer, look for the wide variety of apples that begin to appear, signaling the first hints of the coming fall season.
The Hidden Gem: Inwood Greenmarket
Location: Inwood, Manhattan
Located at the very northern tip of Manhattan, the Inwood Greenmarket is a true community gem. Situated in a beautiful park setting, this Saturday market offers a great selection of produce from New York and New Jersey farms. It’s a peaceful and scenic place to do your weekly shopping, far from the crowds of the larger downtown markets. It’s a great way to support the principles of farm-to-table living directly.
