Why Saturday Mornings Are Best Spent at the Dane County Farmers’ Market
As warm weather approaches, Dane County Farmers Market has become the highlight of everyone’s Saturday mornings. Opening up for the season on April 16th, the familiar booths entice you with fresh produce and baked goods. I look forward to eating something new for breakfast instead of my usual oatmeal.
A typical day at the farmers market starts out with all the art and merchandise on State Street. The famous Stella’s Cheese Bread across the street will probably already have a line down the sidewalk, so be prepared to wait. If you follow the flow of the crowd, the first booth will feature ooey gooey cinnamon rolls that you have to try at least once in your life otherwise you’ll regret it. I don’t make the rules.
Personally, I beeline for Chris and Lori’s Bakehouse. It’s to the left and technically against the flow of the crowd, but their scones and sconuts never fail to make my day. Ranging from “Healthy Schmealthy” to “Ultra Healthy”, customers can choose what flavor and ingredient list looks best to them. Make sure to go early if you want the vegan and gluten free items because they tend to sell out first. So far, I’ve tried both ends of the spectrum. Their Whole Grain Vegan Blueberry Oat Scone is one of the best things I’ve had, but you can’t ever go wrong with the Chocolate Chip Sconut. It’s a scone with a hole in the middle and glazed to perfection.
Another great option to try if you’re not looking for something sweet is the empanadas. I’m not quite sure what the booths are called, but if you walk around the heavenly smell will lead the way. I’ve tried the spinach and cheese one and the curry samosa featuring potatoes, peas, and carrots. They also have countless egg options – some with ham and some with cheese. I highly recommend eating one while you’re there and taking a couple to enjoy later at home.
Although I typically get breakfast at the farmer’s market, I’m usually persuaded to buy the delicious cheese samples, fresh tomatoes, flavorful honey, and homemade popcorn kernels. You simply cannot go wrong with anything you purchase there. Not only is it sourced from Wisconsin, but you know you’re supporting hardworking families and local businesses when you spend your money. It’s not crop season yet so there is not a ton of produce yet. However, it’s early in the market season and there’s still many more Saturday’s to come. If you haven’t found your way to the capitol square yet to visit Dane County Farmers Market, make plans for next Saturday morning!
