Fresh Market is one of my favorite food markets in the US. Precisely in Miami. I am used to going to the one in Aventura, or in South Beach. It offers the best quality fruits and vegetables, a vast variety of coffee flavors and brands including the whole bean one which you grind yourself right there. A variety of spices and nuts, in different shapes and forms. Candies, chocolates, teas and a selected variety of wine from all over the world. Not to mention their meats, their fabulous deli with fresh salads, sandwiches, rotisserie chicken and several other dishes they prepare fresh daily. The bakery is also to die for, from the cinnamon rolls to the croissants, cookies and baguettes, everything is delicious.

The market is simply spectacular, so much so that I decided to dedicate a post about the market, and give you a few tips so you can have even a more pleasant time while shopping. When you enter the market you already feel welcomed by the sound of classical music and the inviting dim lighting. The flower section is placed by the entrance, so you are also welcomed by gorgeous orchids and roses. Then you walk into the fruits and vegetables´ section, which gives you an instant “wow” feeling.

First thing I suggest you do, well if you drink coffee, is to go to their coffee station, always situated close to the entrance, by the whole coffee beans section. Grab a mini cup of their selection of the day, they are all fabulous. There are dozens of coffee bean flavours, all very nicely displayed in barrels (see the pictures below). Simply choose your favorite, add the whole beans to the little paper bag placed next to the grinding machine and just enjoy the smell while you wait. Don’t forget to get one of the cute little plastic scoop with their logo, its free!

Then walk thru the fresh fruits and veggies and find the dates! They are marvelous and always have a tasting box for you to try one of those delicious delicacies while strolling thru the market. Believe me, it makes food shopping such a pleasant experience.

Then walk thru the fresh fruits and veggies and find the dates! They are marvelous and always have a tasting box for you to try one of those delicious delicacies while strolling thru the market. Believe me, it makes food shopping such a pleasant experience.

If you just want to grab lunch or dinner, go to their deli, they have so many good options. Most of everything is sold by weight, and it is all ready to go, from tuna salad, empanadas, pasta, creamed spinach, mashed potato, or several wraps and even dumplings boxed in 6 with a side of soy sauce!

The selection of meat and fish is impeccable. You can buy the plain pieces, but also they make the “ready to cook” pieces, such as chicken filled with spinach and ricotta cheese or filet mignon wrapped in bacon, or a fresh piece of salmon covered with pistachio crumbs. They really make your life easier.

Then you want to pass by the cheese section, oh the cheeses are incredible as well. Get a piece of their parmesan and pair it with a Pinot Noir, their selection of wines is quite selective and offer a little bit of everything  from everywhere.

The chocolates are absolutely amazing, from different kinds of chocolate bars to chocolate covered almonds and raisins, to blueberries and cherries, most all available in dark, milk and white. You will also find special candies, delicious gummy bears, a huge selection of jelly beans flavours and many other sweets.

The teas are another huge plus for me at this store, at Fresh Market, you will find a selection of brands and flavours like nowhere else. Even at specialty stores I have never found such a good selection of teas, from loose leaves to tea bags. I am making a post only about the different flavours and brands I got during my last trip to Miami. I will announce on my Instagram page, follow me there and keep track for my posts. (link below).

Enjoy and bon appétit!