Known for its fresh produce, artisan foods, live music, arts and crafts, the Little Italy Mercato farmers market has been downtown’s open-air grocery store for almost three years. With recent expansions, new initiatives and appetizing events planned for 2011, the Mercato continues to hold the title of San Diego’s largest farmers market, boasting more than 100 booths. “In January, we added a fifth block of booths at the top of the market between Union and Front Streets,” said Catt Fields White, Mercato manager. “This year our big initiative is to aim for a zero-waste market, promoting the use of reusable bags and recyclable materials, and provide composting opportunities to downtown residents.” White developed the Mercato for the Little Italy Association, earning the moniker “Mercato Maestra.” She claims the only thing she and her husband were missing from their neighborhood was a great grocery store. “Little Italy’s very proactive attitude toward urban development meant that we could build a world-class market very quickly,” said White. Upcoming events at the Mercato include Mac Madness, a professional and amateur macaroni-and-cheese cookoff in March. April will bring a Sustainable Feast event in which San Diego’s top chefs will prepare tasting menus using local products to benefit the San Diego County Outdoor Education program. In observance of Earth Day, the Mercato will institute a new zero-waste initiative on April 22. To honor its third anniversary in June, the Mercato will hold a Citrus Carnival celebration. An emphasis on farm-fresh, high-quality food products attracts local chefs and foodies to the Mercato. “We are serious about the quality of our farmers and vendors,” said White. “We rigorously screen applicants to maintain a balance of great offerings. Visitors enjoy the chance to sample the best of San Diego, and downtown residents appreciate the opportunity to get out of their high-rise homes and meet their neighbors on a weekly basis. The live music doesn’t hurt, either.” With an extensive background in the restaurant industry and experience with local food issues and marketing, White is a self-proclaimed farmers market groupie — seeking them out wherever she travels, be it San Francisco, North Carolina or Paris. Among the Mercato’s offerings are locally grown fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat, fish and flowers. Artisan food vendors shuck oysters, roast coffee beans, bake bread and pastries, preserve pickles and jams, and offer a variety of other foods. A smaller section of local arts and crafts provides an opportunity for gift purchases, and Pet Place offers natural pet foods and accessories. Visit the Mercato in Little Italy on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Date and India streets. Free parking is available at Washington Elementary School on State Street. The Little Italy Association made up of property owners, businesses and community members who work to preserve the unique cultural resources in Little Italy, as well as promote safety, beautification and economic development. Visit www.littleitalysd.org for more information.
