More than 150 years ago, the Plaza del Mercado (Market Plaza) on Norzagaray Street in Old San Juan was the place to go to shop for food stuffs, fruits and veggies. Once again, it is open and, similar to in olden days, it is full of only organically grown and homemade organic products. Today, it is called the Mercado Agricola Natural Viejo San Juan (Natural Agricultural Market of Old San Juan) and it is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds, for locals and visitors alike.

The market, located in the San Juan Museum, opens at 8am every Saturday. They usually have about 20 vendors on any given Saturday, so it is not large, but it is growing! There are some produce vendors, some other food stuffs and then others with organic, health-related products (even a holistic healer/masseuse).

On the day I went, there was a variety of fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables, along with all sorts of locally made products, such as cheese, coffee, breads, sauces, juices, therapeutic oils and even organic homemade dog treats. There are also some plants, such as herbs, flowers, and vegetable seedlings, along with cut flowers for sale. And if you are hungry while visiting, there are prepared organic and vegetarian meals and snack foods, and even cocos frios, fruit sorbets and batidos (smoothies). Sales run until about 12:45pm or 1pm. It is a great place to pick up some local products (for yourself or as a souvenir) and support local agricultural pursuits and farms.

I recently stopped in and found some goodies to buy and had a nice fresh, healthy lunch. Lots of great sights and aromas, and some really nice people to talk with. If you are in Old San Juan on a Saturday morning, stop in and check it out. Get there early, as some vendors (like the bread lady) sells out early.

If you have organic products and would like to be a part of the market, you can contact them through their web site.

Details

The market is open on Saturdays from 8am until 1pm.

You can visit their web site for more information.

The market is located at Calle Norzagaray #150, in the Museo de San Juan.