One of my favorite urban activities is scouring open markets. It isn’t uncommon to catch me with a box of limes, backpack full of mangos or a couple tuna steaks. However picking markets is a trial and error process since each one is unique. Here’s my top three (feel free to add to the list, I know there are a couple across the bridge):
Haymarket: This is a tough one, because there is a science to it. First off, it’s only open Fridays and Saturdays from about 9-6. DON’T GO ON SATURDAYS! The reasoning is that everything is freshest on Friday morning, and the day makes a difference. Make sure to inspect your food! Quality is what lacks at this market. I only go Friday mornings if at all. Stuff that looks good at the market doesn’t look so nice when you get it home, so be careful. Also, don’t take anything you don’t select. Vendors will try to pawn off their worst products early so select your own! This is a good/only market to get seafood, but only get it Friday morning. Make sure to pick out your steak/filet because they will try to rip you off.
Copley Market: Open Tuesday and Friday 11-6. Copley leads the markets in food quality. Lots of good cheeses, baked goods, actual plants, and quality vegetables. You pay for the quality, but it’s worth the insurance. Also, the atmosphere is much different than Haymarket, because the Newbury Street crowd/tourists will stop by. Be prepared to motivate slow traffic in order to buy your baguette.
Southend Open Market (SOWA): Probably the coolest of the three, the Sowa Market is a scene for local art, fashion and some food. Not your grocery destination. Lots of local clothing designers. Good potential for anyone looking to looking to distribute their talent. Great atmosphere. Downside is it’s only open Sundays. Definitely check it out!
-Caleb Hutchings
