Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Ye Olde Yankee Peddler



I've been pleasantly surprised by my little corner of suburbia lately. It seems that there are three cute fruit stands/green markets within 10 miles of my apartment.  All I had to do was pay attention, it seems. First up: The Yankee Peddler.

The Yankee Peddler is the type of mom and pop small market I've envisioned riding my scooter to while wearing a white dress and heels. They sell seasonal fruit and veggies like honeybell oranges, freshly made breads (ciabatta, baguettes, challah rolls, pumpernickel), and tons of goodies from Cake Kingdom (best cranberry pumpkin bread I've had).  I didn't even know we had a locally produced goat cheese until I stopped by the store. Turtle Creek goat cheese is made by Turtle Creek Goat Farm just a few miles from Palm Beach Gardens (Loxahatchee) and is quite refreshing and mild. I tried it with a local orange blossom honey, strawberries, my own cherry tomatoes, and in sandwiches. I have my eye on fig preserves. It's almost as exciting a find for me as was the Jupiter-made Monk in a Trunk ale (more on that later).

This isn't an "organic" farmer's market. It's more of a casual store that carries nice gourmet items and delicious samples of food from around the world, as well as freshly baked goods. If you're lucky, the stone crab truck will be parked out there when you pass by. 

There are a few issues with location. The old, dignified inhabitants of Jupiter not only speed on this road, they also don't see small scooters trying to turn off. So, I've scratched riding my scoot to the store. Also, always wear a helmet and sturdy boots when on a bike, kiddies. Raw skin isn't glamorous.