You’ve changed the way
you commute, you’ve cut your garbage in half, you’ve swapped your light bulbs and you’re a whiz with your
blue box; Lifestyle introduces the next wave in environmentally friendly living: organic, local
produce.
Don’t be fooled by the word “organic” — we’re not talking about the organic sections in your grocery store.
The average carrot travels an average of 2,958 km from farm to shelf — that’s 14,556,960 carrots, laid end to
end!
We’re talking instead about taking advantage of Canada’s gorgeous local produce. Farmers’ markets have been
around long before the “green” trend began, and they’re flourishing now as consumers become more aware of the
benefits of becoming a “locavore,” including (but certainly not limited to): better prices, fresher produce,
safer herbicide/pesticide levels (Canada’s restrictions far exceed those of many import countries) and the
support of the local community.
Today, farmers’ markets aren’t the only way to buy local — restaurants are catering to this new breed of
consumer by offering local menus. Lifestyle shows you where to go from coast to coast.
British Columbia’s Vancouver Farmers Market has been in operation since 1989 and has established a group of
loyal produce buyers who are thrilled with the low prices and delicious quality of the fresh, local food
available. Along with featuring local produce, the market offers a variety of foodstuffs, artisan gifts, and
agricultural products and supplies. The market supports the trend towards home food gardens, and has
experienced staff at hand to answer any questions, whether you’re a glove-wearing rookie or a seasoned green
thumb. For more
information, visit their website: vancouverfarmersmarket.com
Looking for a glamorously local night out? After a day of market shopping, swing by Pair Bistro,
located in the heart of Point Grey, Alta. They offer a variety of delicious local bites that come with their
refreshingly local mantra: “All B.C., all the time.” Visit pairbistro.ca for more information
The Calgary Farmers’ Market is proud to cater to followers of the 100-mile diet — consumers who only
eat food that have travelled a short distance from their homes. Open all year round, the market offers
staples throughout the winter and showcases seasonal crops during their peak periods that will keep you
coming back from spring through fall. The market only offers the freshest, ripest produce, but don’t fret if
your favourites aren’t available during the season – local cheese vendors, bakers and dairy farmers provide
delicious product to tide you over until spring. Learn more about the
seasonal diet by visiting their website: calgaryfarmersmarket.ca
Inspired by the vegetarian items featured in the Lifestyle spring edition? Try The Coup,
Calgary’s favorite vegetarian restaurant emphasizing local, whole and organic ingredients. Enjoy a vegetarian
meal – visit their website: thecoup.ca
Toronto boasts countless farmers’ market — one need only “Google” to be provided with enough locations
to keep you busy all year. This year Lifestyle suggests you swing by Queen West’s Trinity Bellwood
Farmers Market. The mandate for the market is to support and promote local and urban sustainable agriculture
as well as to educate the community about the food that they eat. They are self-proclaimed supporters of
“slow food” — gathering regional produce and bringing it home to prepare and cook with loved ones. This
exclusive market features an application and approval process to ensure that consumers are buying the best in
local produce. Learn more about the
market by visiting their website: trinitybellwoods.ca
Not in the mood to cook? Dine out in style at Toronto’s Eight Wine Bar, a wine-centric restaurant
serving market-fresh comfort food in the heart of the city’s bustling downtown. Visit their website,
here: eightwinebar.com
The Halifax Farmers' Market, a.k.a. the Brewery Market, is nicknamed after the historic Keith’s
Brewery Building where it operates. The Brewery Market is the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market
in Nova Scotia and is held year round on Saturdays from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Described as “the only good reason to
set your Saturday morning alarm,” the market offers the best in local produce as well as a variety of
handmade Nova Scotian crafts. The market is currently preparing to move to the Seaport; one of the
most energy-efficient green buildings ever constructed in Atlantic Canada. Learn more about
the Brewery Market here: halifaxfarmersmarket.com
Enjoy a local brunch, lunch or dinner at Halifax’s Fid Resto — Local by Nature! The restaurant
features the delicious seafood you’d expect as well as a bounty of delicious entrées and appetizers featuring
local produce. Take a look at their
menus here: fidresto.ca
Photo by Arnaud
Clerget
