Tampa Downtown Market

I’ve visited the market twice now, and it’s one of the best local markets I’ve been to. On my first visit, I bought the following (some for myself, some for Christmas gifts): soap made locally from goat’s milk, homemade semolina pasta with rosemary and garlic, apple curd, a CD-rom with Burgert Brothers historic photos of Tampa, fresh whole wheat bread and a mango banana smoothie. The second time, I got some grapefruit, a pastry and a smoothie. They also had homemade dog treats, loose leaf tea, coffee, olive oil, dips, local honey, handbags, jewelry, cigars, crepes, biscotti and vegetables. There was a wide variety, and all of the items were local. The vendors were also very nice and thankful for the support.

Some of the items were a little pricey, so it’s not something I can shop at on a regular basis. It’s also only open on Fridays from 10 – 2. I asked why it isn’t open on weekends and was told they don’t want to compete with the St. Petersburg Saturday market or the one in Ybor City. I think St. Pete is far enough away not to be of concern, and I like this one a lot better than the one in Ybor because of more variety. Hopefully they will expand some day so more people than those who work in downtown can enjoy it.

The only negatives were the cost of some of the items. I would also have liked to have seen fresh flowers there.

Overall, a great experience!
www.tampadowntownmarket.com