23Jan

The Little Italy Mercato is a popular spot in Downtown on Saturday mornings.
There are tons of great vendors that offer a selection of produce, meats, flowers, art and more. Below is a list of a few stand-out vendors that you cannot pass up!

Certified Producers

African Sisters

Idzai Mubaiwa relocated from Zimbabwe to San Diego in 2002. She grew up eating what she and her family planted on their farm. Wanting to continue this lifestyle, Idzai’s first goal was to find farming land in San Diego. Since then, she has grow her business tremendously.

Produce:

  • Scallions
  • Carrots
  • Broccoli
  • Tomatoes

Smit Farms

I had the pleasure of working for Smit Farm’s last summer at the North Park Farmers Market. They’re a family owned business from San Joaquin Valley. Many of their products are certified organic. I highly recommend trying their orange honey almonds or their apple cider!

Produce:

  • Apples
  • Pears
  • Cherries
  • Nuts & Juices

Artisan Grocery Vendors

The Guac Shac

The Guac Shac brothers make their guacamole five days a week for guaranteed freshness. Hayden and Bryce based their business out of San Diego, and their handmade guac does not disappoint. You can kind the Guac Shac at multiple farmers markets, restaurants, and retail stores.

Dips:

  • Guacamole
  • Macho Dip
  • Gringo Sauce

Basil Tops

Cynthia C. Bronte, founder of Basiltops, began her journey in 1979 with a greenhouse business. She later developed a new way of growing basil hydroponically. While taking inspiration from her customers, she created her first pesto recipe: Pesto Perfectto!

Pesto Sauces:

  • Roasted Garlic
  • Sun Tomato
  • Lemon-Lime
  • Habanero

Handcrafted Goods and Gifts

INKredibleDESIGN

INKredibleDESIGN sells a variety of artwork created by Brandon Hubbard. As a local, his business is based on his love for San Diego. Today, Brandon shares his artwork at two farmers markets and several shops throughout the city.

Artwork:

  • Signs of SD
  • Interior Design
  • Maps & Prints
  • Photography

Bella Vie Candles

Bella Vie Candles are created by candle-lover Shanon Warfield. Her beautifully scented candles are long lasting and a bang for your buck! I’ve purchased a few scents, and would recommend the San Diego Original Soy Candle.

Candle Scents:

  • Bamboo
  • Garden Splash
  • Lavender
  • Champagne

Prepared Food Vendors

BUMP Coffee

BUMP Coffee focuses on high-quality, organic coffee. They believe in coffee that represents the area it is cultivated in. In this case, that area is San Diego. They also offer a subscription service, delivered right to your door on your schedule.

Coffee:

  • Cold Brew
  • Earth Child
  • Dark City
  • Pour Over

Island Life Foods

Owned by Chef Maui and his wife Jenn, Island Life Foods is a mobile food service. They frequent four farmers markets in San Diego, and can be booked for private events. Also, they are committed to using organic ingredients and wild caught fish.

Menu Items:

  • Poke
  • Shoyu Brisket
  • Garlic Shrimp
  • Salads
Property in Little Italy

Give me a call today at (619) 228-6790 or email me at Ryan@livingthesandiegolife.com for more information or to schedule a tour of the neighborhood!

And Always Remember, It Matters Who You Work With!