Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, San Francisco

One of my favorite things to do on a Saturday morning is the lazy farmers market stroll. Whether it's me and three girlfriends grabbing a gourmet brunch and cappucinos al fresco, or my boyfriend and I browsing for that evening's ingredients...the plaza market is the perfect start to a relaxing weekend. The produce is remarkable, depending on the season you can count on the sweetest heirloom tomatoes, dozens of varieties of squash, or fresh, juicy pluots. Chat with the growers to find out the best preparations. You'll also inevitably run into friends doing their weekly shopping. Samples abound at this foodie's paradise, and you'd be remiss to pass up the amazingly fresh goat cheeses, homemade preserves, and luscious produce on hand. Detractors claim the plaza market is overpriced, but compared to the pale, flavorless produce you get in chain grocery stores, this stuff is well worth it. I love the fresh flower stands and often pick up a bouquet to go with my edible purchases. Parking can be had in a nearby structure on Howard, an S.F. bargain at a flat $3.