After recently visiting the grocery store, it became clear that food prices are going up. Not that it surprised me, since everything is more expensive right now (ahem, gas), but I decided that the next time I wanted fruit and vegetables, I would shop at the Dallas Farmers Market and compare prices.
To my somewhat surprise, I was able to make better purchases and get a lot more for my money at the market than at grocery stores.
The market is the place to get fresh produce and flowers directly from farmers during the summer months. Colorful berries and veggies line the street, all from different vendors, all with different prices. Usually prices for bulk veggies and berries are only a dollar or two apart, but hey, with today’s prices, a dollar is a dollar. Of course, some food costs the same at both the market and the grocery store, but in the long run, the market won my wallet and me over.
Tips: If you don’t want to buy in bulk, farmers will usually negotiate a price for one tomato or two potatoes, instead of an entire basket. Or just take a friend and split the bounty. Also, to avoid crowds, visit the market in the afternoons. If you like the crowds, Saturday morning is your cup of tea. The Dallas Farmers Market is open daily from 7 a.m.–6 p.m. and is located downtown at 1010 South Pearl Street.
