3 Fantastic Farmers at the Pittsburgh Public Market

This Labor Day weekend marked the opening of a new public market in Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District. It is a neighborhood that is known for a diverse mix of ethnic flavors and locally grown ingredients. The new venue is sure to be well woven into the cultural fabric for years to come.

Nearly 7-years in the making, the Pittsburgh Public Market will be the first year-round indoor public selling space for the city in 45 years. The last market was demolished in 1965. I had the opportunity to explore the beautiful venue on its second day; giving me the opportunity to meet a few of the local vendors.

There were many wonderful booths of hard working individuals serving and selling their handcrafted goodies with care. Three local farmers in particular caught my attention for their fresh picked harvest, beautiful displays and sunny demeanor.

Rippling Brook Farm:

Their stand was packed full with an extensive variety of late summer and early fall vegetables. Also, their offerings included a variety of meats and dairy products. My conversation with the brother and sister duo who serviced the stand was delightful as they offered me a sample of sweet golden watermelon. They even invited me to visit the farm sometime to see it in action first hand….who knows, I just might take them up on that offer.

Mott Family Farm:

I’m a huge fan of the ability to use strong merchandising to tell a compelling story around the products to the buyer. This farm had that skill with their beautiful displays and unique use of props to draw in customers who became curious about the stand’s offerings. Their displays even sparked a few photography ideas I just might use in future posts.

Pucker Brush Farm:

“I’m sure you can tell I like color just by looking at the baskets,” owner Pam Bryan responded when I commented about her extensive variety of produce. In addition to her usual farming duties, Pam is a sheep farmer. Her large assortments of hand-dyed yarn were like soft bundles of color just waiting to be knitted into winter comfort.

There is something wonderfully satisfying about knowing where food comes from and the people who grow it. The more often I shop locally at places like the Pittsburgh Public Market, the better I feel about the world of food. I encourage you to develop relationships with your local growers the next time you decide to visit a farmers market. It is their stories that could be your secret ingredient to recipe success.

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