Step into Aventura Farmers Market and you are instantly whisked away on an unforgettable sensory journey around the world. Here, at South Florida’s largest indoor market, weekends are an invitation to immerse yourself in a rainbow-palette of juicy, just-picked produce, mouthwatering international treats, irresistible handmade goods, one-of-a-kind accessories, and other beautiful temptations!
Begin your global adventure grabbing something refreshing – maybe a Venezuelan coconut shake (cocada) from El Coco Loco Frio, or a delicious smoothie from Coco’s Market. Then, sip your way past picture-perfect plants, breathtaking blooms, farm-fresh fruits and veggies – many grown using responsible and organic techniques – as you gain a feel for the lay of the Market.
For an astonishing array of roses – from calming lavender to passion-provoking hot pink – stop by Emotion Growers. With more than 60 varieties, you’re sure to find the bloom that perfectly suits your mood! As you continue meandering past the great diversity of vendors, half the experience is gaining insights into their unique stories.
Ciabella Bakery
Like that of Montreal natives Franco Morency and Nathalie Game, whose appreciation for unprocessed ingredients and vegan cuisine resulted in Ciabella Bakery, and such flavorful standouts as their olive ciabatta. Or how, from her childhood in Buenos Aires, Vanesa Farfan’s love for finely-crafted jewelry culminated in starting her own business. At Vanesa Farfan Jewelry, Vanesa’s delicate designs weave together gemstones, beads and natural fibers, resulting in captivating creations such as her wrap-around boho bracelets.
Vanesa Farfan Jewelry
If you’ve lived in South Florida any length of time, you know full well that the sun can be fierce – although, thankfully, the Farmers Market is indoors and air-conditioned! But when outdoors, the inspired headwear from American Hats, protects you from harmful rays with an extensive collection that combines functionality and flair. There are visors and caps for jogging and tennis, broad-brimmed beach hats, and smart fedoras – even cowboy hats and sombreros – the perfect hat for every occasion!
Starting to feel a hankering for lunch? You’ve come to the right place! The only question is: where in the globe will your taste buds take you? Perhaps to Argentina with Margus Empanadas, melt-in-your-mouth pies stuffed with tender chicken, beef, mushrooms and more. Or to Peru, savoring fresh fish cooked in citrus juices at The Ceviche and Guacamole House.
Margus Empanadas
Then again, the marvelous aromas of the Med lure you to Mediterranean Delights, where a wide array of treats – from hummus and baba ganoush to spice-infused kibbeh and honey-soaked baklava – await. And if Hawaii is in your culinary travel plans, head to Mr. Pancho Gourmet Hot Dog; it only takes one bite of the pineapple-topped sausage to catch the aloha spirit!
Venezuelan arepas at Budarito, scrumptious alfajores at Paula’s Bake Shop, Italian imports at Best From Italy, walnut-filled Hungarian beigli at Gerbaud Bakery and Juices – a world of delectable flavors is at your fingertips. So many choices can make decisions difficult, but you can always take goodies home to enjoy later on. Simply add a nicely dressed fresh salad – perhaps with some of the lovely produce from the Market – and voila, dinner is served!
After lunch, continue browsing through the Market’s 70+ stalls and the many treasures they hold. If you are looking for a special statement piece for your home or a unique gift idea, Kalico Innovations carries vibrant one-of-a-kind acrylic creations glazed to look like crystal. The handiwork of Colombian artists, this distinctive art captures your imagination as well as your heart.
Candy Plush
Any animal lovers in your family? Then you can’t miss the smile-inducing Fur of Love where all the merchandise – including pajamas, socks, mugs, and keychains – are graced by pooches and kitties! The whimsy carries through to Candy Plush and its gorgeous clouds of cotton candy! Light-as-air tongue-dissolving deliciousness, this is the stuff from which sweet dreams are woven!
As the day draws to an end, consider what goods you may need at home. Fresh eggs, fruit preserves and honey, rustic breads, salad dressings and tapenades – these and much more are all here, rendered with love by local farmers and artisans, proud to call South Florida home.
The Aventura Market is open every weekend, throughout the Lower Level, during mall hours. Follow the Aventura Market on Instagram or visit the Aventura Market page for more details including vendors for each weekend as well as special editions.
