Chicago Late Summer Produce Guide
Grab handfuls of blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, grapes and, of course apples, as well as larger fruits like cantaloupes, melons, peaches, pears and watermelons. Vegetables are even more plentiful this time of year, and stalls will be brimming with greens like lettuce, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, celery root and celery, chard, cucumbers, green beans, kale, peas, spinach, peppers and zucchini. Other veggies to choose from typically also include carrots, cauliflower, eggplant, garlic, green onions, leeks, radishes, scallions and squash. Last but not least, don't forget your herbs, like basil and cilantro.
Unsure about which produce is freshest? Just ask the farmer; they're sure to steer you toward the best produce week after week, because after all, as the weather changes, the best produce changes too.
(Photo Credit: greencitymarket.org)
Green City Market
1790 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 880-1266
www.greencitymarket.org
Easily the largest food market in Chicago, and long lauded as one of the best markets in the country, Green City Market operates outside in Lincoln Park from May to October on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., and indoors in November and December. The market organizers pride themselves on educating everyone from chefs to the general public about locally produced food. For the best summer produce, visit the tents and stalls of Ellis Farms, Green Acres Farm, Hillside Orchards and Nichols Farm & Orchard, among a multitude of others.
(Photo Credit: cityofchicago.org)
Daley Plaza Farmers' Market
Washington St. and Dearborn St.
Chicago, IL 60602
www.cityofchicago.org
Situated in the heart of the city, Daley Plaza's Farmers' Market — open from May to the end of October on Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. — is jam-packed with a variety of food, from baked goods and cheese to fruits and veggies. In other words, it's the perfect place to grab a bite to eat for lunch or to stock up to create a true farm-to-table feast at home.
Logan Blvd. from Milwaukee Ave. to Whipple St.
Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 489-3222
www.logansquarefarmersmarket.org
Head to Logan Square every Sunday through October 26, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., to explore the popular market that's stocked with lots of local goodies, including everything from prepared sandwiches to seasonal produce. As you shop the stalls, you'll also be entertained by a different musical group. Kids can also learn about farming and produce through the Budding Farmers program.
Related: Best Farmers Markets In North Suburbs Catering To Kids
Berwyn Ave. between Clark St. and Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640
www.andersonville.org
On Wednesdays through October 15, between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., head north to Andersonville to pick your produce. While on the smaller side, the market is still packed with locally produced products as well as plenty of produce, both fruits and vegetables.
N. Lincoln Ave. and Leland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
www.lincolnsquare.org
Farmers set up shop in Lincoln Square every Thursday night from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesday morning from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., making it easy to visit whether you're a morning person or a night owl. As it's conveniently located right off the Western el brown line in the parking lot, the market is on the smaller side, but you'll still be able to find all the produce you need, from vendors like C&D Family Farms and Mick Klug Farm, to make a great meal. The market runs through October 30.
Related: Best Community Farms Near Chicago
Elizabeth SanFilippo is a freelance writer, who enjoys trying new foods from all over the world. But her favorite city for culinary treats will always be Chicago. When not writing about food, she's scribbling novels, and TV show reviews and recaps. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
