FARMERS MARKETS & PICK-YOUR-OWN PRODUCE
Farmers markets carry the freshest and tastiest West Virginia produce throughout the year, but they really come to life in the summer. And with pick-your-own farms scattered around the state, you can select the juiciest berries right off the branch. Which famers market will you visit in Almost Heaven?Orr’s Farm Market, in Martinsburg, is a family owned and operated farmers market offering fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and other snacks and treats. At Orr’s you can also pick-your-own crops. Choose from flowers, strawberries, cherries, blackberries, black raspberries, grapes and blueberries in the summer. You’ll want to make sure to come early for the best availability.
Want fresh produce every week? Gritt’s Farm, in Buffalo, has a Community Supported Agriculture program that allows you to sign up to receive some of the week’s harvest. You get to pick what comes in your box and when you want to pick it up. Gritt’s also specializes in farm-to-table feasts where gourmet cooking samples the local ingredients found right on the farm. Past menus have included chilled melon soup, braised beef and grits and spiced zucchini cake. Reserve your seat before it’s sold out.
Capitol Market, in Charleston, is a train station turned indoor-outdoor market with a variety of vendors. Enjoy just-carved meat from the butcher at Johnnie’s Fresh Meat Market or devour chocolate covered strawberries from Holl’s Swiss Chocolates. If you’re craving sushi you can get that too, at Sushi Garden. And that’s just on the inside! Outside is an open-air market where you can find sweet corn, fresh strawberries and an array of flowers from farms and greenhouses around the state. The Capitol Market also hosts various farm to fork events, where you can sample some of the local produce in deliciously made meals.
In the Potomac Highlands, Wardensville Garden Market is more than just a farmer’s market, it’s a community institution. The nonprofit farm and bakery employs local youth and teaches them about small-scale sustainability farming. You’ll find organic produce and eggs, locally sourced meats and cheeses and from-scratch baked goods. With outdoor seating, this is the perfect place to grab lunch with your friends and family.
Located in Huntington, The Wild Ramp is a farmer’s market and local foods store that showcases West Virginia food and artisan products. With more than 100 food producers and artisans, you’re sure to find something to please every taste bud. Their Harvest Kitchen program features local and regional products in convenient meals-to-go. Food items vary to allow customers to try unique and seasonal dishes.
What are you waiting for? Get out and explore a heavenly farmer’s market today!