Monterey Bay area chefs love shopping at our farmers markets because we offer the largest selection of certified California-grown vegetables, fruits, herbs, dairy products, meats, and specialty products from local family farms and businesses. The purchasing decisions made by chefs serve as models to the community. Prioritizing sustainable, fresh, local produce in their menus allows chefs to create delicious, authentic food, while directly supporting the farmers who produce their ingredients.
“We want to help chefs get their bulk shopping done as efficiently as possible without being hampered by crowds while trying to navigate the market stalls with huge carts of produce,” explained Catherine Barr, market manager. “The Chefs Shop Early program is used primarily at the Friday Monterey Farmers Market at Del Monte Shopping Center. We give chefs a half-hour start before the official market opening at 8 am.”
The Chefs Shop Early program also provides a direct connection with our farmers. Chefs, do you need something special? Let our farmers know! This information encourages farmers to grow and provide a more diverse selection of specialty items for the farmers markets.
To get your Chef Badge ID, bring a business card with your name and restaurant name, and stop by the information booth at the Aptos Farmers Market or visit Kay Gatanaga (market manager) at the Monterey Farmers Market at Del Monte Shopping Center. You will receive your badge the following week.