Over 80% of Americans live within 10 miles of a farmers market—but few have one as vibrant, inviting, and downright delicious as Lakewood Ranch’s.
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If you’ve never strolled down the shady rows of booths at Waterside Place on a Sunday morning, let me set the scene:
There’s the smell of freshly baked sourdough, citrusy soap, and sizzling empanadas in the air. People walking dogs with cold brew in one hand and fresh flowers in the other. Kids giggling at balloon artists. Local musicians playing under palm trees. And everywhere you turn? Local vendors pouring their hearts into what they do.
But let’s be honest—with over 90 vendors, it can be overwhelming. Where do you even start?
That’s exactly why I put this list together. I’ve visited the Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market dozens of times, chatted with the owners, sampled their goods (a lot of them), and narrowed it down to 16 absolute must-try vendors. These are the spots locals rave about. The booths with lines. The ones where you go “okay… I’ll just buy one more thing.”
Whether you’re a weekend regular, a new Lakewood Ranch resident, or you’re just in town for a sunny Sunday, these vendors offer the kind of local flavor and community connection you won’t find at the grocery store.
Let’s dive in.
Let’s start with a vendor that has a literal fanbase. The Empanada Girl’s booth always has a line—and for good reason.
Each empanada is golden and flaky, made fresh, and often gone by noon.
Pro Tip: Grab a six-pack to go. They reheat beautifully in an air fryer.
The place every caffeine-lover needs to find first
Out & About is more than just a mobile coffee bar—it’s a Sunday essential. While they aren’t set up among the tents outside, they do have their physical location right there at Waterside Place. Their nitro cold brew is next level, and they always have seasonal drinks that feel fancy but approachable (think brown sugar iced lattes or lavender matcha).
Local tip: Grab your drink before walking the market. Trust me. Coffee + strolling = bliss.
Bold oils, sweet balsamics, and gourmet pantry magic
If you cook—or want to cook more—this booth will inspire you. Olive Branch & More is a culinary playground filled with:
You can taste everything. And the owner loves to suggest pairings.
Favorite combo: Fig balsamic + garlic olive oil drizzled on arugula with shaved Parmesan. Game-changer.
Authentic. Flaky. Irresistible.
This French bakery’s croissants are so buttery they melt in your mouth. From almond-filled pastries to crusty baguettes, Rendez-Vous offers an elegant taste of Paris right in Lakewood Ranch.
Why you’ll love it: They bake small batches, so the quality is top-tier—and yes, they do sell out.
Bonus: Every purchase supports workforce training for adults with disabilities.
Florida’s Freshest Fish Co. lives up to the name with a selection of wild-caught seafood. From mahi-mahi to gulf shrimp, it’s the place to stock your fridge with restaurant-quality catches.
Pro tip: Bring a cooler. You’ll want to grab enough for the week.
Why try them: Add crunch and nutrition to your salads, sandwiches, and smoothies—grown with care and no chemicals.
Hot tip: They offer samples. Try before you buy and thank yourself later.
A different kind of honey vendor—this one’s got raw honey harvested in Manatee County with a hyper-local flavor profile.
Why it matters: Local honey is believed to help with allergies—and it just plain tastes better.
Hand-poured soaps, bath bombs, and skincare essentials that smell so good you’ll wish they were edible.
Bonus: Great gift booth. Stock up for birthdays and hostess gifts.
Why stop here: You’ll never know it’s gluten-free—until your stomach thanks you.
Ever tried lion’s mane mushrooms? Petrichor grows them locally and sells them fresh, dried, or as grow kits.
Get inspired: They often share recipes and cooking tips right at the booth.
This vendor’s flaky, golden-brown pockets come stuffed with everything from chimichurri chicken to veggie-friendly spinach and cheese.
Insider tip: Get a few to-go. They reheat like a dream.
Fresh. Creamy. Spicy. Chunky. Smooth. However you like your guac, they’ve got a version you’ll crave all week.
Pro tip: Pair it with their homemade chips for the ultimate snack.
A rebel with a sourdough cause. Bread Bandits brings seriously delicious, slow-fermented loaves every week.
Arrive early: They sell out fast—especially the herbed loaves.
You read that right—cakes at a farmers market, and they are divine. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, too.
Why stop here: It’s dessert that’s actually good for you (or close enough!).
Want to hit all 16? Here's how:
✅ Arrive before 11 AM (beat the crowds and get the best stuff)
✅ Bring cash—some booths are card-only, others aren’t
✅ Pack a cooler bag for seafood, produce, and baked goods
✅ Follow vendors on social to get weekly specials
✅ Take your time—it’s not just a market, it’s a Sunday experience
So come hungry. Come curious. And come ready to fall in love with at least 16 vendors.