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Trout Lake Farmers Market
15th Ave E & Victoria Dr
Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4
Neighbourhood: Kensington-Cedar Cottage
(604) 879-3276
Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4
Neighbourhood: Kensington-Cedar Cottage
(604) 879-3276
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
21 reviews for Trout Lake Farmers Market
Review Highlights
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"...made Jams and Jellies, Soaps and oils, Cheese, Baked goods." In 4 reviews -
"A nice walk/bike ride there and back, and lots of great..." In 5 reviews -
"Also an organic cafe on wheels as well." In 6 reviews
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21 reviews in English
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Review from M L.
Vancouver, BC
12/25/2011
This is the best market in Vancouver that I've been to. Makes me look forward to the fall when I can get the Golden Russet apples and the summer when it's the peak season with an abundance of fresh local food. Lots of varieties of vegetables/fruits you can't get at your supermarket and you get to meet some of the people who produce the food. Nice to also know that what I'm eating wasn't shipped long distances and not preserved to last forever.
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Review from Amy T.
5/20/2012 2 photos
The Trout Lake Farmer's Market is finally open and will stay open every Saturday until October. (For exact dates, check the website)
I couldn't believe how many people showed up, so keep that in mind when trying to find parking. If you can take transit, cycle or walk, do that instead or you may need to park quite far.
There were so many local items for sale such as berries, fish, meats and jewelery. Come hungry and you can eat at one of the food carts for lunch. You can choose between Roaming Dragon, Crepe cart and Chili Tank. I wanted to eat a crepe, but came way too hungry and didn't want to line up. In the end I had chili, but was still a very tasty choice. Loved the thick chunks of beef and tomatoes.Listed in: Pet Friendly Vancouver
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Review from Isabelle G.
Vancouver, BC
5/22/2012
Every year the selection of vendors is hit and miss with me, however, I am never disappointed by making it a somewhat decent morning out of it. The area itself is nice and close to the drive. This year I scored some awesome humus from Bean Boy that was gone in less than 10 minutes between myself and the guy I am dating. I also bought some hard pressed soap and a bag of lavender for baking.
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Review from Tara K.
Vancouver, BC
10/25/2011
I LOVE the Trout Lake Farmers Market! Yes, there are lines (for things that will sell out) and the prices for Organics may be more expensive than at your local grocery store. However, the produce from the farmers market is vastly superior to those in grocery stores.
Check out the Thai Princess (Jeng) for TASTY quick CURRIES to make at home! He is so nice and has lots of samples! I buy 4 or 5 packs at a time, freeze them and then when we have company, voila... I have a great fast meal. The owner always has a smile. http://www.thai-prince...
If you are looking for the world's BEST MASALA CHAI ever look no further... they have it at Trudy Ann's Bombay Masala Chai. http://www.trudyannsch...
She is from India and blends all the spices herself. She is warm, friendly and so funny! She has samples of all her teas to taste..... yummm...........and hot chai cups to go. She is not there too often though :(
The CHEESE from LITTLE QUALICUM is amazing and such friendly people. You will have a good chat with the Ray and Judy, who usually run the 'shop'. I love the Rathtrevor cheese http://www.cheeseworks...
We are also addicted to 'BREAD AFFAIR' and their sourdough bread. They both have samples. http://www.abreadaffai...
(They are in stores as well)...
The crepes are FANTASTIC!!! There will be a line up, but it is worth it. Same for the Chilli Tank guy who is there I think every other week.
We are VFM members and the first market of the month they have specials. Bonus... we can take our DOG to Trout lake after!
The farmers come from far and I really am grateful for all they do for us city folk. -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
10/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am finally a member! Yes, it's taken me this long to spend $10 for a membership card, but I had my reasons -- albeit, they're more like excuses. It's really me who has been missing out: "market money" transaction fees waived, discounts at different stalls, a button, stickers! I'm telling you -- it's worth supporting our markets!
The market here is large. Is it the largest in all of Vancouver land? I might just have to say yes! Lots of variety, live entertainment, food stands, port-a-potties, friendly people and pets, and of course the beautiful lake setting. It's becoming a Saturday morning ritual, and I must say, I'm loving it!!
The only downside - parking is really tough here. Yes, I know it's encouraged that we bike, or take transit. But I was ready to buy 20lbs of veggies for canning, but thought twice of carrying that load back to my ride, parked several blocks away. The have tried to make up for this downside by having volunteers who can help carry your new feastful treasures back to your car and they do have a free and safe bike valet.
1/30 - 30 Day Challenge -
Review from Trudi C.
Accidentally stumbled across this when cycling through the park one summer Saturday afternoon! I was already hungry, and this was like a mirage ;D
Lots of local, fresh food and products. I really do like to support local businesses. I was persuaded into buying a fresh batch of Thai yellow curry sauce after the seller gave me samplers :D Must try a crepe next time! -
Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
9/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
$2 a pound for fresh local peppers - I could leave my review here.
Not only do you find amazing fresh, local produce it's all quite affordable. The vendors are friendly, everyone there is having a good time and it's pretty much my favourite hang spot in the summer. But if you're going to maximise your Trout Lake Market experience I have some suggestions.
Go hungry, grab some breakfast or lunch from one of the food trucks and snack away sipping on awesome coffee while watching people. Once you're full and ready to go, unroll your resuseable shoppingbag and head out to the stalls.
I am a huge fan of the look, snack, decide method to exploring the market. I stroll looking at what everyone has, I tend to get hungry at some point along the way, buy some carrots or apples and then do a second circle to get all my groceries.
That's about it. If you come by bike I strongly suggest using the bike parking, it's free and safe and way easier than finding a tree skinny enough to tie your bike to.
Whatever you do, go and enjoy yourself while supporting local, awesome farmers. -
Review from Louise G.
5/29/2011
This is becoming our favourite Saturday destination. A nice walk/bike ride there and back, and lots of great vendors to frequent.
All that plus a lovely adventure through a beautiful area of Vancouver that includes Trout Lake.
Celyddon Farms is a regular there. My go-to place for delicious eggplant.Listed in: Healthier Choices, There and Back Again
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Review from Ellie V.
Vancouver, BC
8/26/2011
Definitely a place I try to get out to during the summer! There is such a fantastic plethora of produce! They carry a lot of organic fruit and vegetables, along with the occasional meat vendor.
A lot of people complain about the lack of parking, but hey, I thought that you typically walk, cycle, or take public transportation to a place like this. Also, the place gets really busy quickly, so I would advise on going right when it opens!
There's always music playing there, and the people at the information tent are helpful. -
Review from Sarah D.
5/13/2011
Okay, is anyone else as excited as I am that the Trout Lake Farmers Market starts up again tomorrow? I just can't think of a better way to spend a lazy Saturday morning, especially when the weather cooperates!
Down at the north Trout Lake parking lot you will find heaps of local, organic, and seasonal produce sold by the farmers themselves. I'm especially looking forward to the fresh apples that come in a myriad of varieties that you just can't find at the local produce places. For tomato lovers, there's always a ridiculous selection of beautiful heirloom tomatoes, and you can also find local, organic meats and freshly baked breads, amongst other treasures.
Farmers market shopping is always a friendly, social experience. So come out, meet your neighbours, and take home some delicious, healthy food. Don't forget to bring your shopping bags! -
Review from Peter H.
Vancouver, BC
1/18/2011
La Bohême Crêperie
My French is not the best, but I'm pretty such that translates to edible heaven. La Bohême Crêperie is a purple food cart that appears at the farmers market, and I whole heartedly believe the proprietor is a culinary genius. I say that with a straight face, and I am grateful for the gift he shares. About two dozen crepes are available to choose from, with the menu changing depending on what is in harvest.
La Cheve - Moroccan olives, goat cheese, caramelized onions, greens on a buckwheat crepe with la bechamel.
Seasonal berries - berries of the moment dancing with lemon-honey ricotta on a buckwheat crepe.
Let me put in context how amazing this food is: It's January and I'm talking about a market and food that does not open until late spring. As if this was not wonderful enough, you can eat these crepes sitting in a green space over looking a small lake with a dog park; Bliss.
In conclusion, Trout Lake Farmers Market by virtue of being associated with La Bohême Crêperie, is automatically blessed with a 5 star review. -
Review from Melissa J.
Vancouver, BC
8/26/2010
I love East Van.
Whew. i said it. As a closet East Van lover, it has been hard for me to just come out with it ( I lived downtown for many many years).
This is why it is even harder to review the Trout Lake Farmers Market so poorly.
As a farm girl at heart and soul, a "farmers market' was an exciting concept after living in the big bad city for over eight years. But who are these farmers? Where are these farms? And why are they charging the same amount as Whole Foods?
To a conventional farm girl such as myself, the idea of going direct to the farmer has a few benefits: 1) getting excellent tasting food from a local grower you support, and 2) getting great food for a decent buck.
This is not the case at "local Farmers Markets" within Vancouver.
I am more than happy to support the local farming community, but in all honesty, why are they making it more difficult to show our support than it is to find quinoa in Edmonton?
Vancouver Farmers Markets have become another way that Vancouverites can feel better about what they are doing by waiting in line for something they can get cheaper elsewhere.
The Trout Lake Farmers Market is like the Roxy-- you wait in line too long, spend too much money, and go home feeling drained with an extra piece of meat that you don't need.
The only difference is that you might not feel so guilty the next morning.
Yours faithfully: The Ninja Pirate
MJO -
Review from Courtney M.
Halifax, NS
7/20/2010
In spite of my love for any and all farmer's markets, I still have to err on the side of four stars for the Trout Lake Farmer's Market.
Having headed to the market two weeks ago I had picked up: rainbow beets, cut flowers, soap, rhubarb and pickles (no, not for the same recipe). The pickles were delicious in potato salad and so I headed back for some more last week. The pickle ladies were sadly not at their pickle booth, which prompted me to look around and notice that many vendors appeared to have been subbed out. Still lots of neat variety but I don't think you can rely on this market for much more than a casual wander, due to the fact that the vendors switch up form week to week. You can't head here expecting that you can get your weekly allotment of kale for example, since the kale people might be on hiatus.
If a coffee and some people watching is what you're up for then I definitely recommend the Trout Lake Farmer's Market though! :) -
Review from Sarah O.
Vancouver, BC
10/2/2011 2 photos
trout lake is the place to go for the local vancouver farmer's market experience. after perusing through kitsilano farmer's market (because its close to my house) and walking away because i can't afford to spend $5 for a pepper.. trout lake proved to be a success. a long row of vendors line the street with delicious produce including summer royal grapes (those blue in colour ones) to carrots the size of squash to many types of apples (equivalent to the price of whole foods).
my quest to find organic local produce proved a success. on to making some spiced apple cider..i love fall :) -
Review from Roanna Z.
5/17/2009 4 photos
Opening day Spring '09. Festive atmosphere. Home made Jams and Jellies, Soaps and oils, Cheese, Baked goods. So much fresh food to choose from as well as hand made craft. Today I was so happy to meet some local vendors and residents. Children having their face painted, doggies getting special meals.
A literal truck stop for crepes !! YUM! Buckwheat ! Also an organic cafe on wheels as well.
It was kind of crowded but I enjoyed the people on this perfect warm afternoon in the park. I'll be back for sure. -
Review from Stephanie M.
Vancouver, BC
9/4/2010
I hadn't been to a proper farmer's market in a while and the experience reminded me why it's such a great place to get your groceries. There were tons of fresh produce vendors and local artisans that produced cheese, baked goods and other crafts. There was even a vendor selling gluten free baked goods, which I thought was amazing, and "the pesto guy" who had about fifteen varieties of delicious pesto (he will give you a tasting to help you pick a flavour). However he did mention he won't be there again for a few weeks, so don't go in September expecting to meet him. Two other great feautures of the market are the setting (right beside beautiful Trout Lake in a very quiet, serene neighbourhood, yet close to Commercial Drive) and the free (donations welcome) bike parking provided by MEC. Awesome!! Want to go back once or twice before it closes for the winter.
PS - Bring cash. I made that rookie mistake. There is an ATM there that you can use in a pinch but they charge a fee, so it's better to come prepared. -
Review from Amelia C.
Vancouver, BC
6/9/2011
What's the point if you can get the same things at similar prices at a Whole Foods? This is what I think when I go to some of the other farmers' markets in the area. Trout lake, however, offers enough novel items to make it worthwhile to get out there. Green eggs, wild edible greens, and shiso plants were among some of my favourite finds here last year. Nice that they have a bike valet, too.
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Review from Chloë E.
Vancouver, BC
12/11/2008
The Trout Lake Farmers Market isn't huge (perhaps three dozen vendors on my last visit?) but it is still nicely diverse. The best part is the open-air roaming that accompanies visiting John Hendry park.
Go early or many vendors will be sold out -- eggs in particular. In addition to farm produce and baked goods, there are also plants, crafts, and services available.
I haven't regularly shopped here, and so don't know it as intimately as a regular does, but lots of people were walking from the grounds with baskets laden with vegetables. A good sign.
The market hub lies at Victoria and 15th -- an easy walk from Broadway and Commercial. -
Review from Pookie B.
Vancouver, BC
8/4/2011
Got very excited when I visited and ended up spending a ridiculous amount on money on just fruits and vegetables. But, it was worth every cent. I haven't stopped eating/grazing on my purchases this week. Have brought enormous satisfaction to my otherwise fussy tummy. So, I bought lots of certified organic produce. Of particular note, the cherries, berries and peaches were amazingly tasty. Had walla walla onions for the first time and were the best I've ever tasted. They were surprisingly nice and sweet. Sure, the fruits and vegetables are perhaps not the cheapest you'll get in Vancouver, but Trout Lake is conveniently close to my home and everything I bought were nice and fresh. Plus, there's so much choice!!! Personally, I like the idea of supporting local farmers and the local economy. I really don't mind spending a little extra to keep this going.
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Review from Jenny G.
Richmond, BC
2/28/2011
The best and biggest selection. Real farmers sell here. Lots of organic produce from small farmers.
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Review from J G.
Vancouver, BC
9/3/2008
How I love the Trout Lake Farmers Market. As I write, I am eating carrot soup made from farm fresh carrots and baked potatoes from the same source, and I am in fresh, local food heaven. Open early on Saturday mornings, this market features everything from heirloom tomatoes to foot long squash and zucchinis. There's a lot of organic produce here, and so much delicious looking food, you may have to hold yourself back when you see the gorgeous blueberries (seasonal, of course) and juicy cobs of corn. There are also vendors selling freshly baked goods, crafts and if you've forgotten to bring your own bags, the kind folks from http://eatlocal.org sell grocery and produce bags on site. Once you come to this market, you'll never want to go back to your regular grocery store.
