Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
A Market Born on the Bay: History of Ferry Plaza
The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market began in 1993 as a modest outdoor event outside San Francisco’s historic Ferry Building. Spearheaded by the nonprofit Foodwise (formerly CUESA), the market aimed to connect local farms with urban shoppers. When the Ferry Building was renovated and reopened in 2003, the market became a full-time, year-round destination that celebrates sustainability, small-scale agriculture, and Bay Area food culture. Today, it is regarded as one of the top farmers’ markets in the United States, drawing locals, chefs, and tourists alike.
Don’t miss the nearby Davis Farmers Market in the Central Valley for an easy weekend road trip.
Location & Contact Information
Market Address: One Ferry Building #50, 1 Ferry Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94111
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oQcbT6fPzH2HCZYa6
Phone: (415) 291-3276
Hours of Operation:
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Flagship Market)
Social Media:
What You’ll Find at Ferry Plaza Market
| Market Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Organic Produce | Certified organic fruits, vegetables, herbs & flowers from Northern California farms. |
| Artisan Foods | Local cheeses, olive oils, honey, baked goods, jams & small-batch sauces. |
| Prepared Meals | Farm-to-table dishes, wood-fired pizzas, tamales, breakfast burritos, coffee & fresh juices. |
| Seafood & Meats | Wild-caught Pacific seafood, pasture-raised meats & sustainably produced eggs. |
| Dairy & Beverages | Goat cheese, almond milk, craft kombucha, cold brew & herbal teas. |
| Nursery Plants & Flowers | Seasonal plants, herbs, succulents & floral bouquets. |
Why This Market “Ranks Up” Among the Best
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Iconic Location – Set at the scenic Ferry Building, with Bay Bridge views
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Chef-Favorite Vendors – SF’s top chefs shop here for their menus
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Certified Organic Producers – Over 75% of vendors are organic or beyond organic
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Zero Waste Commitment – Composting, reusable bags, and waste-free events
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Family-Friendly Vibe – Kids’ activities, tastings, and cooking demos on Saturdays
Freshness by the Season
🌱 Spring – Fava beans, asparagus, strawberries, snap peas, green garlic
☀️ Summer – Heirloom tomatoes, peaches, corn, basil, wild blueberries
🍂 Fall – Apples, figs, persimmons, squash, mushrooms
❄️ Winter – Citrus (Meyer lemons, mandarins), greens, pomegranates, root vegetables
Events & Community Activities
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Free Cooking Demos – Local chefs demonstrate seasonal recipes at the Foodwise Classroom
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Foodwise Kids Program – Interactive shopping & cooking for elementary students
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Market Tours – Educational tours for visitors, students, and food professionals
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Holiday Markets – Themed events featuring seasonal gifts and artisanal products
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Chef Spotlights – Monthly guest chefs from Bay Area restaurants
Meet the Makers: Standout Vendors to Visit
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Dirty Girl Produce – Known for dry-farmed tomatoes
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Hodo Foods – Handcrafted tofu and plant-based foods
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Acme Bread Company – Legendary sourdough loaves and baguettes
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Blue Bottle Coffee – Single-origin roasts and cold brew near the Embarcadero
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Capay Organic – One of the founding farms of the market
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Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. – Award-winning California cheeses
Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
Tips for First-Time Shoppers
✔️ Arrive early on Saturdays – Best produce and prepared foods sell out by 11:00 AM
✔️ Bring reusable bags and containers – Vendors encourage zero-waste shopping
✔️ Use public transit or bike – Ferry Building is well-connected and offers bike parking
✔️ Check the vendor list by day – Different farms attend on different market days
✔️ Talk to the farmers – Learn how your food is grown and how to prepare it
Family Fun & Kid-Friendly Touches
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Kids’ Discovery Station – Hands-on food education and tastings
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Farm Animal Days – Special weekends where kids meet chickens, goats, or bees
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Face Painting & Crafts – Often held during seasonal events or holidays
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Play Area & Lawn Nearby – Just steps away at Sue Bierman Park
Sustainability Efforts That Engage the Community
🌿 Compost Everything: Compost bins at every turn to reduce landfill waste
🌿 Reusable Supplies: Free utensil-lending station & stainless steel cup return
🌿 Eco Partnerships: Collaboration with local waste management and environmental nonprofits
🌿 Local-First Vendors: Every vendor grows or crafts within 250 miles of San Francisco
FAQs
Q1. Is the market pet-friendly?
Yes, leashed and well-behaved pets are welcome in the outdoor areas.
Q2. Does the market offer gluten-free or vegan food?
Absolutely. Many prepared food vendors offer gluten-free and plant-based meals.
Q3. Can I ride the ferry and shop?
Yes! Shoppers often take the ferry into SF and walk directly into the market.
Q4. Are there restrooms at the market?
Yes, public restrooms are located inside the Ferry Building.
Q5. How do I become a vendor in the market?
Visit the official Foodwise website or stop by the Info Booth for application info.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Market on the Waterfront
The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market isn’t just a place to buy food it’s where Northern California’s finest farms, chefs, and shoppers meet. Whether you’re craving peak-season fruit, sustainable seafood, or just want to sip a fresh coffee overlooking the Bay, this market delivers freshness, community, and unforgettable flavor. Don’t miss the nearby. If you’re craving coastal vibes, the Valley Farm Market in Spring Valley is another local favorite.
Visit the Ferry Building any Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday and see why this farmers market ranks among the best in America.
