So with the arrival of a rainless afternoon after several disgusting days, my first order of business is to take a walk at lunch and enjoy the sunshine. For those who have never been, the Union Square Farmers Market on Mon, Weds, Fri, is always a pleasure and has the best seasonal produce in the city. It's also pretty cool for the occasional Chef or Celebrity sighting.
Mostly I just go to see what's fresh and get ideas for dinner. Grab a few essentials to bring home and cook that evening. When I'm hungry as is often the case, it's just an evil place!! You can smell the herbs in season from 20 feet away. The basil overpowering most yesterday as it really starts to come into season. PESTO PARTY COMING SOON!
The Foccacia Guy caught my eye as I passed (I need to learn his name). Yes, he has other items but at 3.75 (2 for 7) his are so fresh and flavorful you'd think you are in his kitchen. Today, after much debate on the dozen or so varieties I went with Portobello, Red Onion and Goat Cheese. Cooked to perfection and oozing with sweet onions it just looked too good to pass up.
Since bread alone cannot be lunch I was forced to now make a meal from the neighboring market stands. A quick glance and I found fresh made organic mozzarella, basil, ridiculously sweet tomatoes, and a small bottle of balsamic that now resides in my desk. Lunch for the gods Italian picnic style. The only downside is I came back to work to eat it and finish my walk. Had I stayed outside, the park was gorgeous, teaming with activity and there's an organic wine vendor I sampled that would have made the meal complete! Next time I guess.
As for dessert at the market, aside from the freshest fruit around there are many excellent baked goods available for all to enjoy and in the fall always cider donuts and other goodies to feast on.
For any New Yorkers or vactioners that read this, it's a must for all to visit!
