And the Best Farmer’s Market in the Bay Area Is …

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the streets surrounding the Ferry Building are ablaze with color as small regional farmers and ranchers, many of whom are certified organic, offer up everything from flowers to fruits to vegetables, breads cheeses and jams.

The back drop of the Bay Bridge and the San Francisco Bay alone probably pushed this farmer's market over the top in this month's Golden Local debate. San Francisco won easily over Berkeley.

Here are the comments and the numbers.

The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is California certified and operated by the Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture.

The Saturday market takes place in front of the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero and extends to the rear plaza overlooking the Bay.

On Tuesdays, the market extends out of the Arcades onto the Embarcadero sidewalk. Drawing thousands of shoppers each week, the markets provide both a service to the community and a festive atmosphere that locals love.

Here's the 411:

Tuesdays 10am-2pm
Saturdays 8am-2pm
At the Ferry Building
Phone: 415-291-3276

Official Website

Now for the farmer's market that came in second place.

Every week, all year round, rain or shine, respected restaurateurs and enthusiastic foodies from all over the Bay Area descend on the Berkeley’s three local farmers’markets not only for the freshest of produce, but also in support of local sustainable farming. More than 60% of the vendors are certified organic, and in addition to the standard fruits and vegetables, the markets also sell fish and shellfish, grass fed beef, goat & cow cheese, fresh breads, pastries, jams and a variety of other goods. Operated by The Ecology Center since 1987, the markets have received numerous awards and recognition, and they’ve become a hub of sorts for the community alternative food system as well as social events offering classes, demonstrations and entertainment.

Here's the 411: