I love farmers markets. Just the abundance of fresh produce and local products. I'm all about helping the local economy.
The Americana at Brand is an upscale small outdoor mall with apartments located in Glendale, CA. If you've been to Los Angeles, you've probably be introduced to The Grove which is located next to the historic LA Farmers Market.
The Americana is the "sister" site of the Grove. Same developer, same style, but different stores and restaurants.
This past weekend they began something new. Glendale already has a farmers market on Thursdays. It seems like they were replicating the feel of what is at the Grove. (I figured as such) So, I was pleasantly surprised by the start of the new one called Gigi's Farmers Market. Who is Gigi? I did a little digging and found out that it is the name of the Americana developer's daughter.
I was able to sample some fresh made breads and some delectable asian pears, fresh fuji apples, oranges. There were handmade pottery and stitched market bags as well as fresh herbs and flowers. They offered some free tacos and fajitas courtesy of Frida Mexican Cuisine and cupcakes from Crumbs Bakeshop.
Two of the stalls in particular that I had visited that I would love to try more of their products.
Domenico's Artisanal Foods sold fresh pasta, sauces, pestos, read-to-go meals, tapenades. I sampled their sun-dried tomato pesto. It was nice and creamy. For those of you who been following this blog, know I'm a suck for a good pesto. This was more than good. They have also been featured in Bon Appetit Magazine, which was cool.
Gourmet Blends sold some fine flavored balsamic vinegars and flavored olive oils. A small bottle would go for about $18 and a large bottle for about $35. I had sampled the Basil Garlic Parmesan Oil and the Asian Dipping Oil. But the one I really liked was the Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar. Wow. The fruit really stands out, so there's a sweet combination with the acidity of the vinegar. That would go really great in a nice vinaigrette.
Note to self: Next time bring more cash. At least I know what the market has to offer for my next visit.
It's little bit more swankier than the Thursday bunch. But there looked like a good turn out for the first day and a nice variety of locally made items as well. Plus I got a free tote bag. I'm a sucker for tote bags, too.
Gigi's Farmers Market. It's every Saturday from 10am-2pm on Caruso Way in Glendale, CA. I'll be coming back.
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