My New Farmer’s Market Crush. It is no secret that I enjoy love wandering markets, and often use the time for dinner inspiration. Though I have my favorite stops in Vienna depending on what I am seeking, I’ll rarely if ever turn down the occasion to make a new market friend. Especially a market as enjoyable as this one.
At the south terminus of the U1, where it seemed few ex-pats venture, I alit from the underground and felt as if I had been transported to the Balkans or perhaps somewhere in Southeastern Europe. This is not the Vienna that ever gets mentioned in the guide books.
A good amount of Turkish stores to tempt shoppers were sprinkled in with Austrian and other vendors. And, even a carousel!
Older gentlemen having their morning conference.
A finely attired Viennese woman and her Carer.
Amir’s Käseland, offering cheeses from around the world. And Hookah pipes. (By the by, I recommend the saffron cheese.)
The “pop up” market on an adjacent side street was far and away the highlight. If I closed my eyes I could pretend I was in Istanbul. Vendors selling their wares with melodic calls; people brushing shoulder-to-shoulder for the incredible tasting, and incredibly priced, produce. I loved it.
Tucked into this magical place, a kindly Austrian farmer who not only shared with me how she made her Bratwurst, but how I should prepare it, as well. I listened carefully and prepared a bratwurst supper that was “the best bratwurst ever,” if I awarded such designations.
These raspberries were but €0,75 per carton! Sweet, firm, and delicious, we were all happy that I brought home three cartons. By comparison, the dark and sad looking berries at my local grocer cost €1,79 per carton and pretty much become moldy by the following afternoon.
In researching this market I learned that many chefs jostle with the locals for the fine bulk produce for their restaurants. Perhaps I bumped elbows with someone famous!
The one downside to my market crush is that a visit requires a 45 minute one-way transit. Small price to pay for such reward, though. Next time I’ll bring my shopping trolley.
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