Last week I shared about the Wakefield Farmers Market in Annandale, but my favorite market is by our old house near Mason District Park on the east side of Annandale. The Mason District Farmers Market takes place from 8am-12pm on Thursdays from May 3rd through November 1st. We were close enough to walk there previously, now I have to squeeze it into my Thursdays!
Laylas Lebanese Restaurant Mason District Farmers Market
The nicest man at the market, Michael Chebat, (who also sells amazing food!)
The vendors at the Mason District Farmers market are great but I definitely have my favorites. The absolute must buy product is the garlic whip from Layla’s. This is a staple for us throughout the summer. We eat it with veggies, as the main condiment with any grilled dinners, and even with chips. I recently picked some up from Trader Joe’s because I hadn’t had a chance to get to the market. It completely paled in comparison. I want to throw it out, Steve plans to take it to his office (poor KW realtors won’t know that it’s subpar). They also sell grape leaves, 2 kinds of hummus, baba ganoush, and pita. So good!
My other favorites are the local honey vendor, Honeycomb Heroes; Bonaparte Breads for delicious chocolate croissants; Valentine’s Bakery and Meats for local meat and poultry; and 78 Acres Farm for the best part of my summer: black raspberries. Maybe I was late to the party, or maybe my idea of a party is a little off, but these tiny fruits are my jam (pun intended). They are not to be confused with blackberries, as they aren’t as big and aren’t sour. They are only available for a few weeks in late June or early July, and they are totally nature’s candy. A little homemade whipped cream on top of a fresh bowl and you’ve got a great summer dessert. You can thank me for the tip later.
Also new at Mason District this year are Great Harvest Bread Co. and Pickle Factory. I didn’t indulge in either on my last trip but they are fun additions for sure!
Almost forgot! This is a great kid-friendly location. There are 2 playgrounds, tons of nature trails and a turtle pond. A great way to spend a Thursday morning with kids!
For a complete list of Farmers Markets at county parks, look here https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farmersmarkets