If you went to your fridge and pulled out your vegetables, meats and cheeses — would you know where your food came from?
There is a huge push in many parts of the country to turn to more sustainable forms of farming, namely the local food movement, in areas like Portland, San Francisco and our hungry city of Austin. In this search for the freshest food grown the closest to home, many local farmers have stepped up to the task and are offering their harvest at area farmers markets.
If you live in the Lake Travis area you may have already frequented the Lakeway Farmers Market that met at the Lakeway Commons shopping center. Last summer the market changed its name and location and is now slinging fresh foods as the Lone Star Farmers Market.
You can find the new vendors set up at the Shops at the Galleria off State Highway 71, across the street from the Hill Country Galleria. Over 50 vendors make their way down to the market every Sunday and set up their displays and heat-beating tents in the parking lot in front of Lowe’s.
Among the rows of fresh vegetables, fruits, meats and cheeses available, you can also find ready-to-eat foods such as tamales, royal style Indian food and gluten-free granola. Many businesses have made their name reaching out to locals at this market, from Moru Foods to Round Rock Honey. I always make a point to stop by Johnson’s Backyard Garden for a fresh smattering of bell peppers, carrots, basil and whatever else might be in season. It’s the perfect time to stroll and sample, picking up the freshest local food just a few miles from home.
A Little Something For Everyone
One of the reasons I love to make a weekly trip out to the Lone Star Farmers Market is because of the fun atmosphere and laid-back vibe that the market exudes. From the live music (think Texas country, jazz and even a touch of rock) to their activities for kids, everyone has something to do at LSFM. Oftentimes there are crafts and face painting for the kiddos, and even a live cooking demonstration or two if you come at the right times.
It’s also a great way to meet your local farmers and food artisans, from bread makers to bee keepers. Eaters and foodies who like to know the most about their foods will find the farmers market to be a wealth of information about the very food we serve ourselves. Many brands offer organic varieties, as well, giving the health-conscious among us just one less thing we have to worry about.
Lone Star Farmers Market is dog-friendly and open year-round so you can visit every season for an ever-expanding selection of natural and minimally processed foods, prepared right in your own backyard. So grab the kids, pack up the car and don’t forget your reusable bags!
Lone Star Farmers Market
12611 Shops Parkway Bee Cave, Texas 78738 (map)
Sunday Market Hours: 10am–2pm
We go all the time. My kids love it. I crave the fresh kettle corn!