Finally checked out the Valley Junction Farmers Market. Arrived shortly after 4pm and found a…read morereally close spot so I was excited. Wandered out to look at vendors. Definitely a smaller more close knit group than compared to the DSM downtown farmers market. It got busy very quickly as it was of the nicest days so far all Summer. If you're watching the live music you gotta get your seats fast. Bring folding chairs. The businesses around the area were bustling and I made sure to check a few of those as well. Every vendor was friendly and inviting. Lots of samples! Local businesses. Farmers. Handmade goods. Jams. Fresh veggies & fruits. Flower arrangements. I would have posted more pictures but it got busy and I was enjoying everything.

I loved my first visit to the Valley Junction Farmers Market. It was a terrific combination of…read morefood, booths, shops, music, and people! Parking was easy, liking the way the stores get a lot of foot traffic as the booths butt up against the sidewalk, facing the stores. There was a perfect vibe from the attendees, seemingly something for everyone. I was unaware of the area, and this Market brought it to my attention.

Fresh Thyme Market is a fresh alternative to Whole Foods-type grocery operations. Fresh and organic…read moreproduce and meats, jealth-cboice pre-made food and snacks, a good wine selection, and a solid variety of house and body-care items make Fresh Thyme a worthwhile stop. Things to know: * Fresh Thyme also has a bakery, which can be a nice plus. * Located in a strip mall off of University Avenue and east of Valley West Mall makes access easy and convenient to a variety of other businesses. * Convenient hours: 7:00am-9:00pm daily.

Best place ever Crab legs suck but you get what you pay for…read moreFriendly staff Great products Fresh produce Fresh squeezed fruit water I love it here!

I have been a member of the Iowa Food Cooperative for nearly 15 years, and I place an order on…read morealmost every bi-weekly shopping cycle. I love being able to support local producers from across the state and pick up in one convenient location. The satellite pick-up locations in West Des Moines, Ankeny, Pleasant Hill and other locations makes it event easier to access fresh, local food! Being able to communicate directly with the producers of our family's food is important to me, as is supporting my local economy. I love the variety of options and all the information I can access about each product from the online shopping page. It's amazing how many things are grown and manufactured in Iowa. I buy all the baking flour I need, fresh produce (even fresh greens grown locally in hoop houses in February!!), meat, eggs, soaps, deodorant, make-up, lotions; you name it, I can finally find it at the Co-op. I plan to be a member as long as I live in Central Iowa!

I like the selection of local products.There are many organic options. Not only is there food put…read morealso household iteams

This place has a lot to offer. We were visiting family in the area and glad we stopped here for…read morelunch. The menu is larger but the brunch menu had some extra options. They do rotate some menu options to keep it fresh. The food was fresh and was flavorful. The service was friendly and prompt. And the vibe was modern/industrial farmhouse. They had an extensive gift shop that had so many goodies. So much more they offer that I am not mentioning. Food specifics I tried included a delicious fig & pig pizza and the duck poutine fries and I also had the dry cider flight to drink.

Try the restaurant - it's worth it. This place is more than just an orchard with fun events. They…read morehave an excellent restaurant and also do monthly themed dinners in their event space. My photos and review are of the special event so these items aren't on their regular menu, but that food is excellent as well. We have been to several of the special dinners and have enjoyed them all. These photos are from the recent Portside Chowder House seafood themed dinner. It was fantastic! So much food! The table service was exceptional with explanations of the dishes and theme. They also have a well stocked bar if you prefer cocktails or beers instead of cider. It's kind of a gem in the central Iowa restaurant scene.

An Ames Tradition Since 1973…read more The Ames Downtown Farmers' Market is located at the old Train Station and runs mostly during May to October on Thursdays and Saturdays. Besides the cool architectural backdrop and the sound of UP Trains whizzing by, you can expect seasonal fruits & vegetables, dairy, meat, jams/jellies, wines, baked goods, and crafts - all from local vendors. I also enjoy the people watching and the community energy. And wouldn't you rather be here than walking the "not as fresh" aisles at the nearby Hy-Vee?

We didn't realize the scope of Slim's Market on our first year last year, but yesterday, we…read morerealized there is so much more to the market. Eggs, dairy, plants, jams and jellies, delicious salsa, and great in-season veggies and fruit. Staff is kind. Fun, and knowledgeable. Great vibe nsode and outside. Owner Kent is such a nice person and focuses on local products, which means a lot in a small town. This place will get frequent visits from us!