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Halifax Farmers Market
Category: Food Farmers Market Farmers Market [Edit]
Brewery Market1496 Lower Water St
Halifax, NS B3J 3R5
(902) 492-4043
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
20 reviews for Halifax Farmers Market
Review Highlights
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"I finally visited it one Saturday morning and I was so..." In 7 reviews -
"Oh the joys of local produce, fresh made greatness, and the..." In 2 reviews -
"...was a gem, although sometimes a little shoulder-to-shoulder." In 3 reviews
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20 reviews in English
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Review from Eleanor M.
Point Edward, NS
7/11/2011
Oh I adore the Halifax Farmer's Market. So vibrant, so wonderful, so fresh (the last comment is a reference to their produce).
Even if you're broke the place is so interesting to look around at... There are also enough alcohol samples to give you a light buzz... And if you're looking for a nice breakfast (to remedy said buzz, or perhaps a buzz from the night before)--This is the place! I got a lovely pastry like thing with feta and spinach that was just perfect to heat, carry, and munch.
So so so much fun! Go there take in the sights and sounds and enjoy! -
Review from Jennie S.
Halifax, NS
8/23/2011
I have to say only 4 out of 5 starts, simply because of the massive crowds, and somewhat unapparent crowd management.
If you go between 7 and 8am, 5 starts! Love this place! local, entertaining, shopping! Make sure to bring your own coffee mug, because you know you can hit up Java Blend to wake yourself up!! -
Review from Sarah B.
Halifax, NS
4/18/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Oh the joys of local produce, fresh made greatness, and the smiles of our neighbours! The old historic building the farmers market called home felt strong-- like it knew it's beauty was a thing of power. However, it has now retreated as the farmers market is now calling a new location home.
The old spot was so crammed that you didn't take full steps, you instead shuffled from vendor to vendor and often stopped to listen to the local talent belt out their newest hit. Now you're faced with so much room that you may go up a level to scope out just what vendors you're in the mood for today, and truth be told, this takes away from the vibe one expects from a market. The new location makes the crammed, intimate experience we've come to love from our market a thing of the past and replaces it with a flea market vibe, and the market is treading on becoming an in-and-out type service.
I'm all for local goodies, and I'm a sucker for feeling like we're living in a community.. However, the new market seems like a Walmart for local venders and their extended hours are adding to that vibe.
Whatever happened to good ol' fashioned family time, and getting to know your fellow community members? -
Review from Annie C.
Kingston, ON
12/22/2010
Bomber market.
Coming from someone who has worked at markets as a vendor and producer this market is really run by the farmers. In and out by 2pm? A producer's dream come true!
Great selection of local veggies along with some other goodies. Set in a beautiful location in the brewery district. What's not to love!?Listed in: Markets!
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Review from Laura P.
Updated - 8/1/2010
The Farmers Market is gearing for some changes and will be adjusting to new quarters of the Pier 21 shortly. I sure will miss its sweet Hollis Street abode, but change can be fun, and it will be interesting to compare vibes.
A little further out, folks can take a waterfront stroll all the way to the end to get here. NSCAD kids can work all night and pop into the market for local tastes and sweet offerings. With a few art galleries and cafes in tow, the Marginal Road area is sure to get a little more traffic.
We'll see... the maze like wonder of Hollis Street was a gem, although sometimes a little shoulder-to-shoulder. Times are a'changin', and it never hurts to embrace. With such full-bodied local services, my bets are that the good vibes continue onwards.Listed in: A Weekend Guide for Out of…, Culture Cool
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/18/2010
Whether I've had a late night or just need a bit of catch up, it can be tough gathering ambition on… Read more »
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Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
3/10/2010
The Halifax Farmers' Market is one of those experiences that's just plain fun to do.
Head out some Saturday morning and make your way to the Market. Going early is encouraged; by 8:30 the place is starting to get packed and for sure you're going to walk a few blocks to get parking on the street. (There's also a paid lot on Lower Water St, just across from one of the entrances.)
Where you enter the complex will determine that routes you take to cover this territory. From the Lower Water St side, paths lead you by the Crêperie Mobile and the stall from Julien's - both excellent places to grab something decadent to nibble on as you browse. Other entrances lead you past craft and artisan displays such as wrought iron and carved wood. In the centre of the Brewery is an opening lit from above by skylights, bringing in the welcome outdoor light to diffuse the gloominess of the passageways.
Everything you could hope to find is at the Farmers' Market: baked goods (including gluten free products), fresh meats, cheeses, hand-knitted goods, hand-carved ornamental pieces, flowers, garden plants, wine ... I could go on and on and still not cover all of the options available to you at the Halifax Farmers' Market.
You simply have to visit the Market at least several times a season. Vendors vary, so it's a new experience every time.
Don't forget to toss a toonie into the busker's case! -
Review from Marc W.
2/21/2010
I love this market. Instead of being an outdoor affaire, it is in an old brick building near the waterfront. The building used to be a brewery. It is a labyrinth of hallways and mulitple entrances. It is easy to get lost, in a good way. Most of the vendors are food centric but some are craft based too. In fact, my first purchase was a pair of home made wool/leather slippers. I still have them and they have kept my feet nice and warm during the Chicago winters.
I was amazed at the quality of the seafood, shellfish and fish. I was not able the judge but I'd bet that the scallops were so fresh to be sashimi quality.
Another amazing thing was the quality of the blueberries. Yes, blueberries. I was able to buy some wild blueberries that were the best I've ever had before or since.
I also grabbed a lobster roll that was delicious.
And as an aside, I'd just like to add how nice the locals were. I have many examples but the one that happened at the Farmers market was illustrative.
I was in one of the restaurants in the market eating some nice Indian food and I turned to ask a middle aged lady a question about what to do in Halifax.
I introduced myself as a tourist and the first word out of her mouth before answering my question was:
"Welcome".
I have asked touristy questions in lots of places and never has anyone say, "Welcome".
How nice is that!! -
Review from Desiree M.
Halifax, NS
9/12/2009 1 photo
This place is a ginormous labyrinth of awesomeness. Around every corner, and hidden inside each nook and cranny, you'll find more bits of awesome floating around.
I went here for the first time this morning, and I couldn't walk away with everything I wanted because of budget constraints. I did manage to get some delicious smoked gouda cheese from fox hill cheese house, some cherry tomatoes from an amish veggie table, a bit of locally made honey, some home made sweet and sour kimchi, and an uber delicious bread dip made from olive oil, prosciutto mushrooms, and grated parmesan... I think that last one is my favorite. All this, and I had to save Pat's preserves, the marinated tofu booth, and any actual veggies for next week.
I must have spent an hour there, and I don't think I've seen the whole place. Vancouver's farmers markets just can't compare. -
Review from Joshua Y.
Vancouver, BC
9/19/2009
This is my favorite place to do my grocery shopping! One would think it could be too expensive when compared to the big business grocery stores. But if you know how to treasure hunt, you can find some amazing deals at the Halifax Farmer's Market!
Every Saturday, I walk on down, grab a coffee, and buy my apples, eggs, meat, fish and a ton of other stuff at this great market. And the best part is that in doing so, I am supporting local farmer's and artists! Many of the kiosk's have samples of their products for you to try. And given the vast amount of kiosks, you can easily have your breakfast by simply walking around and trying the sample foods. Not that I have ever done this of course ;)
My only warning is that if you are claustrophobic, this might not be the place for you. It is rare that you can walk through the market without bumping shoulders all the way through. But the food and the people are worth it! -
Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
Updated - 7/31/2010 1 photo
Halifax Farmers Market is closing its doors, this was the last weekend apparently. It is moving to the new location of Pier 20 along the water front. This will be a market you can access all week long.
It is sad to see the original now gone, but who knows better things might lie ahead.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/17/2010
How can you not love The Farmers Market! We were grazing our way through the market, I say that… Read more »
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Review from cheryl d.
Halifax, NS
7/30/2010 2 photos
There is nothing better than a Saturday morning at the Farmers Market. Located in the historic brewery market you will find anything and everything that is nestled in each corner of this beautiful structure for all to enjoy.
As soon as you walk in you can smell the fresh bread from Julian's and people lining up to buy fresh bread. With hot fresh crapes that you can watch them make in front of you takes a real talent and with a wide variety to chose from I can imagine that you will find something you like.
Wines and speciality cheeses are laid out for your tasting and purchase. Fresh farm produce, meat, deli, fish and of course baked goods. Flowers and gifts for that someone special can be purchased as well. Homemade soaps and oils and even go see Darren and he will not only entertain you he will make you a fresh omelet.
Check out this place you will not leave empty handed. -
Review from Ang M.
Halifax, NS
10/7/2009
The Farmer's Market can be a lot of fun if you have a lazy Saturday morning and no screaming agenda to adhere to. Also, it helps if you're an early riser. Because the one downside to this market full of fresh and wonderful food is that it gets PACKED by about 10 am, and any fun that might be had strolling and browsing the displays disappears with the overabundance of baby strollers and hippie kids.
So get up early - it opens at 7am and stays open until 1pm every Saturday, and you're gonna get the best stuff if you get there early, anyway.
There are fresh fruit and vegetables in season, herbs, cheeses, meats, breads, delicious sweets and coffee, plus gifty crafts and things too. It can be a challenge exploring all the nooks and crannies of this old and complicated building, but that's also half the fun. -
Review from Adam B.
Halifax, NS
2/7/2010
Oh my do I ever love the Halifax Farmer's Market! And you know what, you should as well! Especially if you're a single man or woman (or at the very least, living alone.)
Why you ask? Well, allow me to fill you in. You can buy as much as you need! One thing I find frustrating about a lot of supermarkets is that food comes in prepackaged bags. Carrots, Celery, Potatoes, I always end up buying way too much, but at the Farmer's Market I can get as much as I need and don't have to worry about waste. Beyond that, I find their produce to be a lot better than that of the local grocery stores.
On top of the quality and quantity issues, something I really like about the market is the obvious social aspect. It's packed every Saturday and the odds are you're going to run into old friends, teachers, class mates, enemies, etc. It's great to see so many people out and about. You're bound to meet new friends and reconnect with lost ones.
The market is full of anything you could want, from fresh meat to organic dog treats, there is so much stuff here to check out! Those of you who enjoy the negotiation process may also enjoy haggling prices with vendors. Trust me, it's fun and relatively expected. Who doesn't like earning a deal!? Try it out!
The market is open every Saturday Morning so get off the sauce next Friday and wake up early Saturday and head down to our fair Farmers Market! -
Review from Ruth D.
Halifax, NS
12/17/2009 6 photos
I love farmers markets in general. No matter where I live or travel, it's one of the first places I visit. They all have some unique quality, to say nothing of the fresh local produce, meat, fish and ....well, the "and" is what makes each unique.
With all that, I have never been to a market quite like this one. A rabbit warren of secret entries, nooks and levels; surprise finds at every turn from musicians to art to jewelery, knitted goods, flowers, wine and of course food. Food that's prepared for you - like crepes and omelets, or ready to take home Asian, Mexican or just plain good old Maritime favorites like apple pie, chicken pot pie (my favorite from Little Dorset Farms). The list is endless.
and even better, food fresh from the farm - eggs from free range chickens, organic produce, the best local lamb, fish, seafood, vegetables, cheese, honey...I could go on forever.
Many of those things in one form or another can be found at any great local market, but the social aspect is truly unique to Nova Scotia. It's a gathering place...come for coffee and a cinnamon bun, pain chocolat or an exotic plate of Mexican, Asian, or Middle Eastern fare; meet up with friends, browse ...perhaps even buy something to take home
I, on the other hand, am like other early morning shoppers...we're there along with the city's best chefs getting the prime goods before they're all gone. -
Review from Lindsay K.
Halifax, NS
2/13/2010 1 photo
I can't believe that I've lived in Halifax for this long and still hadn't been to the Farmers' Market. Well, not anymore. I finally visited it one Saturday morning and I was so happy I did.
I couldn't believe the mass amounts of produce they had there. If you're like me, you like to eat your fruits and veggies, but hate having to head to the grocery store every couple of days. I found that at the Farmers' Market I can buy so much more produce for less than at the grocery store. I don't think I'll ever buy my produce at the grocery store again. No sir, it's the Farmers' Market for me.
I really enjoyed just browsing around and having a peak at everything here. There's so much to look at and so much to buy. I could seriously spend hours at a time just walking around and people watching. Sadly, you can only do this for six hours on Saturday's.
I'm probably going to go every Saturday from here on out... and I'm kicking myself for not having gone sooner. -
Review from Lacey H.
3/13/2010 8 photos
This morning's grogginess on my part paired with the mayhem and hordes at the Farmers' Market created a bit of a sensory overload during my visit today.
I think I love the market, or else I simply love the idea of the market. Most visits, I am slightly taken aback by the extreme shoulder to shoulder nature of the shopping/mingling experience. I love to pick up my groceries for the week, get a coffee and see what creations local artisans have concocted - but, I do not fair well in extremely populated situations, especially if Friday night was a late one.
Today I picked up some great spicy samosas from the Serious Samosa guys, as well as some organic apple cider from a vendor in the main atrium. I had some fantastic food samples from the lovely folks selling raw goodies, and sadly I skipped the coffee because the lines were just too long for me this morning.
I'll be interested to see what develops when the market makes its big move in the coming months. I will indeed miss the charm of the brewery location, but I may be more inclined to enjoy my shopping and milling experience in a larger, more well laid out space. -
Review from Ellen C.
6/1/2010
This was one of the best experiences during our stay in Halifax. I was certainly not expecting to weave through long labyrinths of small hallways, sanctums, rooms, and alcoves shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of other Haligonians eyeing produce, sampling chocolate, sniffing herbs, eating crêpes, admiring gourmet dog treats, and listening to Celtic fiddle music all on a Saturday morning. Yes, it's busy and cramped, and long lines form for the fragrant crêperies, bakeries, Cornish pasties, delis, samosas, gelatos, and breakfast burritos. Nonetheless, that is part of the sensory experience and genuine charm. Last but not least, I was blown away by the friendliness of the vendors; one even let me pick out a handmade bar of olive oil soap to try gratis. Halifax, you're lucky to have this gem of a market -- and I hope you retain your lovely charm even after the move to Pier 20.
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Review from erin g.
Halifax, NS
10/10/2010
i wasn't living here before the market moved but i can say i like it! the building is big, so i can't imagine how everyone got into the old location. it must have been seriously cramped.
all the vendors seem good, lots of selection, all kinds of vendors, clean, good vibes. -
Review from Johnny L.
Toronto, ON
7/16/2010
The Halifax Farmers' Market is truly a wonderful experience. We stumbled down here hoping to grab a bite for breakfast and were absolutely surprised by how many people come out for this. The maze of buildings that hold the huge amount of vendors were packed with people. There was so much good food, including jugs of beer, that I had a hard time deciding what to get. Breaking my vow of only eating fish, I grabbed a couple jars of rillette and a loaf of bread and went straight to heaven. The rabbit rillette was better than the pork but, really, both were divine. They were made by a French fellow who uses his boss' restaurant kitchen on off days to make his rillettes and pates. Highly recommended!
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Review from Angela P.
Halifax, NS
1/31/2010
Love the market! I am here every week barring some disaster or illness. It is the only way I can keep our weekly food budget and get some great local and organic products. It can definitely get crowded so patience is necessary, but worth it. I would refrain from bringing the babe in a stroller...sling them instead and its no big deal.
