If you’ve ever stood at the Aptos Farmers Market holding an unfamiliar vegetable and wondering what on earth to do with it, chances are Chef Andrew Cohen appeared at your elbow with a smile. “Oh, that? You’re going to love it,” he’d say — and before you knew it, you had not one recipe, but...Read More
In 2026, the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets proudly celebrates 50 years of serving the Central Coast—five decades of bringing farmers and communities together through food, stewardship, and shared purpose. What began in 1976 as a modest local market has grown into a cherished regional institution, deeply woven into the daily lives of farmers, families,...Read More
With the holiday season (and plenty of cooking!) just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get your kitchen tools in shape. One of the easiest ways to make your holiday cooking smoother—and safer—is to start with sharp knives. Here’s why a quick tune-up makes all the difference: Work Smarter, Not Harder: A...Read More
Spend the day with your guests—not in the kitchen. Chef Jody Lombardo at Bay Living Culinary is offering classic Thanksgiving side dishes and chef kits you can pre-order and pick up at the Aptos Farmers Market or the Monterey Farmers Market. You handle the turkey; they’ll handle the rest! Order Deadline: All orders must be...Read More
As we approach the holiday season, we’re reminded how fortunate we are to live in a community that truly cares for one another. For nearly fifty years, the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets have thrived thanks to the steadfast support of our Santa Cruz County and Monterey County neighbors. Together, we’ve grown not just a...Read More
We’re honored to share that the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets (MBCFM) received several community awards in 2025 — a reflection of the farmers, food artisans, and loyal customers who make our markets such vibrant gathering places. 2025 Awards and Honors Aptos Chamber of Commerce — Business of the Year Good Times Santa Cruz —...Read More
For your Thanksgiving holiday shopping convenience, the Monterey Farmers Market at Del Monte Shopping Center will be open on Wednesday, November 26, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. — a perfect opportunity to pick up the freshest local produce, flowers, baked goods, and specialty foods for your holiday table. Please note: the market will be...Read More
The Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets is honored to be recognized as Business of the Year by the Aptos Chamber of Commerce. “We are so proud to receive this recognition,” said longtime market director Catherine Barr. “As we look ahead to celebrating the 50th anniversary of our farmers markets next year, we are deeply grateful...Read More
A wise friend once told me, “Eat your food as medicine, or you may find yourself taking medicine as food.” That message is close to the heart of Andrew Renard and Michelle Carter of Kitchen Table Cultures, local makers of bone broth and other traditional foods. Andrew explains it this way: “Bone broth is made...Read More
