February’s Green Market at 50 W. Atlantic Blvd. has a slightly different feel than January’s. The snowbird population is now fully settled in, the vendor competition for their Saturday attention has sharpened, and the produce selection reflects a Florida winter that’s been relatively cooperative.
Citrus is still at peak. Blood oranges, navel oranges, Meyer lemons, tangerines, and the large, slightly ugly grapefruits that taste dramatically better than their appearance suggests. If you’re not buying citrus at the Green Market in February, you’re leaving the best part of South Florida’s seasonal produce on the table.
Tropical herbs and edible plants are a February staple from the local plant vendors — lemongrass, various basils, moringa, turmeric. These go fast. Show up early if plants are on your list.
The prepared food vendors are running full strength, with several Caribbean and Latin options that have built real followings. The empanadas are consistently good from at least two vendors. The fresh-squeezed juice situation is excellent given the citrus supply.
One practical note for February: the snowbird crowds mean the parking along Atlantic Blvd. fills up quickly by 9 a.m. The side streets west of Dixie Highway are worth trying, or give yourself an extra ten minutes of walking. The market is worth the extra block.
