Local Harvest

For those of us who have grown up in San Antonio, we know that the Pearl Brewery has been a landmark building for 125+ years. Though it stopped producing beer in 2001, it's now famous sign and beautiful buildings have remained a part of downtown's landscape.

Image via Wikipedia

In 2002, it was acquired by Silver Ventures and thus began its transformation. The Pearl Stables (an event hall), the Aveda Institute and Texas Farm to Table were among the first businesses to go into the compound, followed by Melissa Guerra, one of the newest tenants. There are several other exciting things happening down there - the San Antonio River Improvements project, new restaurants, office and residential space, The Culinary Institute - but I will have to save these other treasures for a separate post and focus on the task at hand! (There's simply too many exciting things to discuss...)

The reason I write today is to let you know about the Pearl Farmer's Market. The Grand Opening is this Saturday, May 16th (tomorrow) from 9 am until 1:00 pm and it's going to be incredible.


I've only been to a handful of Farmer's Markets in my lifetime, so I'm definitely not an expert on this subject. However, I can say that the concept for this one is really cool. All vendors plant, raise and harvest all of their goods, so you can be sure that it's the real, downhome thing. Even more impressive? All vendors must come from within 150 mile radius of San Antonio. That's means its all local. (As a small business owner, I believe that supporting your local vendors is a great way to give back to your community.)

In addition to plenty of things such as fresh produce, potted herbs, baked goods, fish and meats, there will be a cooking demonstration by one of San Antonio's true gems, Andrew Weismann, the star chef from Le Reve, Bigz, and Sandbar. Local band, Emory Quinn, or EQ as they are called by their fans, will also perform. Finally, you can even purchase a ticket for a seat at MesAllegre, the chef's table where all meals are prepared using items pulled directly from the market.

From here on out, there will be a Farmer's Market every Saturday - come rain, shine, snow or sleet. Put this on your calendar. This is not to be missed.