Mercado Agricola Natural Viejo San Juan& Organic!
More than 150 years ago, the Plaza del Mercado (Market Plaza) on Norzagaray Street in Old San Juan was the place to go to shop for food stuffs, fruits and veggies. Once again, it is open and, similar to in olden days, it is full of only organically grown and homemade organic products. Today, it is called the Mercado Agricola Natural Viejo San Juan (Natural Agricultural Market of Old San Juan) and it is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds, for locals and visitors alike.
The market, located outside, at then end of Calle Norzagaray St, in front of Ballaja (by El Morro entrance), opens at 8am every Saturday. They usually have about 15-20 vendors on any given Saturday, so it is not large, but it is growing! There are some produce vendors, some other food stuffs and then others with organic, health-related products (even a holistic healer/masseuse).
On the day I went, there was a variety of fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables, along with all sorts of locally made products, such as cheese, coffee, breads, sauces, juices, therapeutic oils and even organic homemade dog treats. There are also some plants, such as herbs, flowers, and vegetable seedlings, along with cut flowers for sale. And if you are hungry while visiting, there are prepared organic and vegetarian meals and snack foods, and even cocos frios, fruit sorbets and batidos (smoothies). Lunch was delicious! Sales run until about 12 noon. It is a great place to pick up some local products (for yourself or as a souvenir) and support local agricultural pursuits and farms.
I recently stopped in and found some goodies to buy and had a nice fresh, healthy lunch. Lots of great sights and aromas, and some really nice people to talk with. If you are in Old San Juan on a Saturday morning, stop in and check it out. Get there early, as some vendors (like the bread lady) sells out early.
Details
The market is open on Saturdays from 8am until 1pm.
You can visit their Facebook page for more information.
The market is located at the end of Calle Norzagaray, by the Ballaja and El Morro entrance.
Click on a placename below to view the location on Google Maps ...
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