Continuing in the 2011 farmer's market tour series, two weeks ago I visited the Market at 15th and High. It is held on OSU campus in front of the Wexner Center, 1871 North High Street, on Thursdays from 3:30 - 6:30. This small market brings fresh produce to Ohio State students and employees, and anyone else who wants to know the hands that feed them. The location is easily accessible by the Olentangy bike trail and COTA bus. Car drivers can pay for parking in the nearby Ohio Union South garage accessible from High Street and College Road.
My favorite find of the trip was the OSU Metro Farm stand. This farm, run by students, is an experiment in organic and sustainable agriculture. On the mid-July date they had new organic garlic, fresh cut flowers, and onions. Their display was lovely and prices fantastic.
The Market at 15th and High includes a few tables of non-commerce activities too. I enjoyed chatting with a representative from the Wexner Center about their many fascinating upcoming programs. The agriculture specialist from Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) staffed a table as well. He shared their well-researched Local Food Assessment and Plan with me.
The Market intends to feature a food cart each week, though the Cheesy Truck could not come because of the heat on the date I attended. Also notably absent were any cheese or meat vendors.
I suspect that the Market at 15th and High is much better attended by sellers and patrons in more hospitable weather, and when OSU is in session. I will return for a visit later in the fall to scope out a harvest market and free admission to the Wexner Center from 4-8 pm Thursdays.
Have you been to the Market at 15th and High this year? What did you think?
2011 Hounds in the Kitchen farmers market reviews: