Julio H.
Yelp
Pinecrest Gardens has the best farmer's market in Miami, no competition, and a much welcomed ride of 10 minute east versus the 35 minute drive south to Homestead, to the Redlands farmer's market, which has a completely different assortment of vegetables, and a completely different vibe. To give you a point of reference, this farmer's market could be part of any episode of The Real Housewives of Wherever.
Pinecrest Gardens farmer's market is basically targeted to a wealthy suburban crowd. It is located on a nice neighborhood, with everything paved and organized. As the main form of entertainment in this neck of the woods, it is no surprise to come here and not find a single parking space. This farmer's market is like a festival, it is full to the brim and possibly attracts more people than Trader Joe's. Parking could be an issue, if and only if you want to be civilized and not partake in the friendly chaos.
One thing that I have learned after buying organic in Miami is that, sadly, not everything is organic. If the sign says "Organic Food Here", you still have to ask "Are the cauliflowers organic? Are the tomatoes organic?". It's dumb, but the law is strict and the money is good. Make sure you are paying for real organic stuff.
Like I said before, this farmer's market is more on the socialite housewife side of things. There is kale and quinoa available, so you know what I mean. Seriously, there are lots of vegetables, some strange fruits, lots of fresh herbs, bunch of stuff to make a really nice salad, maybe a nice souffle, maybe an exceptional Asian dish.
But the outstanding feature of this market is that there are lots of very unique vendors, and that is the reason why I am coming here more often. First, there are two bakers, one is French traditional, the other one is American funk, both artisanal breads. There is a fresh pasta lady, half a pound fresh made pasta for $6, and she sometimes has sauces. There are two guacamole ladies, a kettle corn dude, two ceviche ladies, a few cookie ladies (no pun intended, maybe), a crepe guy (did you read creepy?), and the zaniest pizza men in Miami, with their own rolling oven on the premises, baking pizza and calzones right on the spot.
But my favorites here are 1) the couple with the freshly squeezed orange juice by the gallon, for $7, and when I mean freshly squeezed it is freshly squeezed. You can not drink more than two cups of juice. It is strong stuff. Also available, tangerine and grapefruit. Then 2) the sausage gang, with more than eight types of sausages, a mean kielbasa and three types of bacon available to take out if you don't want it cooked right there. Also available, pates and cretons. And 3) the BBQ crew, with some awesome smoked pork and yellow rice, a more Caribbean BBQ style but great.
If I may add, this is a great place to come for breakfast. There are a couple people selling coffee beans, but some are brewing coffee as well. The kids from the sausage stand dish out a delicious *sausage and egg on a bagel*, or you could get some pastries from the bakers. Or you could come for lunch and have sausages, BBQ pork, pizza, etc. My only advice, bring lots of cash, very few things are dollar cheap. Also, come with an empty stomach and willingness to try new things. Points are added for having exact change, as "I love yous" will flow.
Other things available are plants for sale, flowers for sale, rice crispy treats, candles, pottery for decoration, knick knacks, religious artifacts, spaghetti sauces, etc.
Finally, vendors are not the same from week to week, although the more successful ones have become regulars. If you come here and don't find any on the reviewed vendors, well, that was your warning. On the upside, Pinecrest Gardens farmer's market is here year round, and if you are a food adventurer, this market will not disappoint.