More than most years, I’m really looking forward to spring this time around. It was a long winter, with snow on the ground for most of February. I started a new job and am starting to feel like I’m getting into the routine of that. And I’m just all-around ready for a bit warmer weather, driving with the top down, getting some sun on my face.
Along with all that, spring also brings back farmers markets to SW Ohio. Some start up in April, others May, but just about all of the local markets will be going by early June. Last year, I wasn’t on a project, so I had time to go to different farmers markets each week; being busier this year means I have to plan better. I do know that Thursdays will bring Centerville’s market, and Sugar Creek has one on Fridays (that opens a bit later, too). I’m ready for locally grown, in season fruits and veggies!
Along with the farmers markets, though, I’m again working in downtown Dayton. I haven’t been downtown much in over 10 years… I’m hoping that warmer weather also brings out street vendors on the Square. I used to walk the 2 blocks over there all the time, and I hope to have the chance to do so again. It was one of the best parts of working downtown!
The only thing about street vendors is that I can’t help but wonder about the food safety aspect of it… What do you think? Do you support street vendors or avoid them? What’s your favorite food thing about spring?
I generally support street vendors, but observe them first to see how they maintain their work area. If I see them cleaning as they go, I trust them. The best hot dog I ever had in my life (multiple times too) was outside of the courthouse from a street vendor in Jacksonville, FL. He made his own hot mustard and slaw. Sigh……I miss that.
I eat about 2/5 of my work lunches at the food carts or street vendors (smaller carts, really) and have never had an issue. Granted, I live in Portland, OR, where street carts are a huge business, are well-established, and are checked just as often by food inspectors as brick-and-mortar restaurants.
I just happened to do a write-up on our farmers’ market here, as well. Isn’t spring grand? ^_^
Chris,
That’s a good idea, watching a vendor for a bit before stepping up to try their food. I heard Brunswick, GA, has a great hot dog street vendor, too.
devlyn,
I think most areas that have vendors try to inspect. I know in Cincy, it’s one company that sends out all the vendors, but other places have more variety. The more there are, the better, I think. And nice photos on the farmers market entry!