The East Bay is home to a thriving local food scene, with a wealth of farmers' markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, and farm-to-table restaurants. Eating locally is a great way to support nearby farmers and producers and reduce the carbon footprint of your food. Local, seasonal food often tastes better and can be better for you too! Keep reading for tips and resources to make it easier to eat local in the East Bay.
1. Shop at farmers' markets
One of the best ways to eat local in the East Bay is to shop at farmers' markets. There are several markets throughout the region, including the Kensington Farmers’ Market every Sunday right in Colusa Circle! We also love the Berkeley Farmers' Market, the Oakland Farmers' Market, and the Temescal Farmers' Market. At these markets, you'll find a wide variety of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs, as well as locally produced cheeses, meats, and baked goods. By shopping at farmers' markets, you're supporting local farmers, while getting the freshest, most flavorful produce available.
2. Join a CSA program
Community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs are another great way to eat local in the East Bay. These programs allow you to purchase a share of a local farm's harvest, which is typically delivered to a central location or directly to your doorstep on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Urban Tilth in Richmond has a Farm to Table CSA that is a youth and a local resident-run non-profit venture growing and sourcing only certified organic locally grown produce. By participating in a CSA program, you'll get a regular supply of fresh, seasonal produce, and you'll be supporting a local farm.
3. Eat at farm-to-table restaurants
Farm-to-table restaurants are another great option for eating local in the East Bay. These restaurants source their ingredients from local farms and producers, which means that you'll be eating fresh, seasonal, and locally grown food. Some delicious restaurants love include Benchmark Pizzeria in Kensington and Gather in Berkeley.
4. Visit local food co-ops and natural food stores
There are several local food co-ops and stores in the East Bay that specialize in local and organic food. These stores typically source their products from local farms and producers, which means that you'll be able to find a wide variety of fresh, seasonal produce, as well as locally produced meats, cheeses, and other products. Some popular local food co-ops and natural food stores in the East Bay include the El Cerrito Natural Grocery, Monterey Market, Berkeley Bowl, and the Oakland Food Co-op.
5. Attend local food events
The East Bay is home to several food events throughout the year, including food festivals, farm tours, and cooking classes. These events provide a great opportunity to learn more about local food, meet local farmers and producers, and sample some of the best food in the region. Some popular food events in the East Bay include the Eat Real Festival in Oakland and the Berkeley Food Tour.
Eating local in the East Bay is a great way to support local farmers and producers, while also enjoying fresh, seasonal, and nutritious food. By shopping at farmers' markets, joining a CSA program, eating at farm-to-table restaurants, visiting local food co-ops and stores, and attending local food events, you'll be able to experience the best of the East Bay food scene. Headed to the Kensington Farmers' Market? Stop by the Zip Code East Bay office at 388 Colusa Ave and pick up a reusable produce bag to carry home your goodies!
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