London Markets

Londoners love fresh food markets.   To meet the need for locally produced food, even traditional retail outlets are freshening their approach.

Masonville Market, London 

Masonville Mall at the corner of Fanshawe Park Road and Richmond Street rents a corner of their parking lot to vendors each Friday morning.  The Masonville Market is a nice attempt, but lacks the atmosphere of the cities other popular markets.  The selection is also more limited.  However,  those who are selling fresh produce and crafts still bring their passion and product information that makes these experiences worthwhile.

"People really ask a lot of questions about where we grew this and what ingredients are in that," said one vendor.

On this Friday morning, the first fresh strawberries of the season are available.  The heavy rain early in the spring didn't hurt the crop too much.  The planting was done early enough and the recent warm temperatures made for berries with good size and flavour.  The early local crop seem a bit pricey at $5 per quart but the price will likely come down.

Masonville Market 

The Masonville Market serves those in North London who like a closer connection to what they eat.  Residents in South London will soon have a place to pick over the best fresh produce.  A fresh food market is planned for the corner of Adelaide and Southdale.

Even the Covent Garden Market in downtown London, supplying fresh food since the mid-1800's had to react to the demand.  They added an outdoor market to supplement their indoor service.  The atmosphere is outstanding with live music and free samples that give a warmer feel to the whole experience.  The downtown location also helps create energy.  Free parking on Saturday (2 hours) helps, as well.

20 month-old Emmett enjoying the sounds of the Covent outdoor market

The Covent Garden Market has certainly responded to all the competition.  The Grandfather of all markets has a bright future with the building of the two Renaissance apartments/condos bringing hundreds of customers just steps away.

NEXT BLOG:  The Western Fair Farmers Market.  Open each Saturday from 8:00 until 3:00pm.