Markets Beyond Cape Town
Markets Beyond Cape Town
Cape Town city centre and surrounds has got fantastic markets on offer, but if you are willing to travel a little bit further you’ll come across a jewel of organic and fresh food markets. Spend the morning at the market and then maybe catch up on a movie at one of the great cinemas in the area or head out to the beach!
Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market
Town: Muizenberg
Much of the appeal of this well-established market is the low-key unpretentious vibe. Set in a characterful covered warehouse space in the heart of old Muizenberg village, the regular line-up of local bands, artisan slow-beer on tap and a variety of robust grub, such as potjiekos and burgers, to Lebanese and Thai dishes means it is a good night out too. Vegans and those with special dietary requirements will find plenty to nibble on. Stock up on organic farm produce and artisan breads, and indulge in sinful cakes like a chocolate Guinness cake before heading home. With their dedicated kids play area, this is market has become on of the best places unwind and socialise after a busy week.
Ethical shopper tip: Support a worthy cause at the Brave Foundation’s stall – there is an amazing range of handmade and organic products from soaps to yummy cheeses.
Trading Hours: Fri 4pm-10pm
Visit http://bluebirdgarage.blogspot.com/
Earth Fair Food Market
Town: Tokai
This market aims to provide a venue where you can socialise, leave the kids in the play area and get your week’s shopping done at a reasonable price. The majority of goods has been ethically produced and there are more than 40 traders to choose from. Popular items include the stone ground flour bread, free-range meats, hand-crafted farm cheese and fresh seafood. There is a selection of real beer on tap as well as organic wine at the dedicated bar. Tuck into a wide variety of hot food – from gourmet hotdogs and burgers to crêpes filled with savoury fillings, delicious Italian ready made meals and even sushi.
Ethical shopper tip: Look out for award winning Bella Vita organic products (part of Living Unity) that include biodynamic dairy products like paneer, as well as tofu and organic veggies.
Trading Hours: Wed 3pm-8pm, Sat 9am-2pm
Visit http://www.earthfairmarket.co.za/
Porter Estate Produce Market
Town: Tokai
Make an early start to get to this market in Tokai. The popularity of the weekly event with its rough-hewn wood stalls means some wares – such as the fresh artisanal breads – sell out quickly. In addition to crafts and produce like cheese, preserves and fresh fruit and vegetables, there’s a play area for children – and dogs are welcome if they’re on a leash.
Manager Gail Coetzee says the aim is to showcase the wares of small local producers while also providing opportunities for the Chrysalis Academy youth development programme.
Trading Hours: Open Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. Porter Estate, Tokai Road.
Call 082 334 5434 or visit http://outdoormarket.co.za.
Bay Harbour – The Hout Bay Market
Town: Hout Bay
This market is an all-weekend affair and you might just need two days to take in all 100-plus food, craft and fashion stalls. Live music and nine draught beers on tap (including Darling Slow) means there’s a festive and lively atmosphere. Start the day with eggs Benedict, or opt for champers and oysters instead. There are plenty of food stalls for the weekend shopping or grabbing a snack – mostly small local producers, organic farmers and artisans supporting a green lifestyle. Vegetarians and those with wheat or sugar intolerances are spoilt for choice. Don’t miss the perfect mini cheesecakes from Nap.
Ethical shopper tip:A market requirement is that stallholders use biodegradable compostable cutlery and containers, and all market waste is recycled.
Trading Hours: Fridays 5pm to 9pm, Saturdays 9.30am to 5pm and Sundays 9.30am to 4pm
Visit http://www.bayharbour.co.za/
Gaia Food Market
Town: Constantia
A peaceful community atmosphere prevails at this speciality food market where only plant-based foods are sold. It well supported by the local vegan community and green living enthusiasts, and the focus is on scrumptious home made foods, often made fresh right in front of you from organic, raw and other wholesome ingredients. Sample some of Earth Shine’s delectable raw pizza, inventive and interesting salads or grab a hot falafel, bean curry or Thai dumpling. Enjoy your fare on the long stoep’s communal wooden tables or under the trees. There is also a range of natural cleaning products, sprouts and seeds and interesting finds for the gluten intolerant and those pursuing an additive-free diet.
Ethical shopper tip: Come early to get hold of the good quality dairy-free tree nut cheese. It’s one of the first things to sell out.
Trading Hours: Alternate Sundays 9am – 2pm (view the website for dates)
Visit http://www.gaiafoodmarket.co.za/
Source: eat-in.co.za