How to Find Local Artisanal Food Products

In all but the luckiest parts of the country, late-winter farmers markets are sparse. But that's no reason not to seek out fine local products year-round. Beyond the fruits and vegetables on market tables lies an ever-growing world of American artisan food products?butter, jams, honey, cheeses, pickles, spreads, olive oil, cured meats, and more.

"Artisan" is an un-regulated term that has no set-in-stone definition?but what we're talking about here are foods that are handmade on family-owned farms or by family-owned companies. Some products?like pickles and jams?are made around the country. Others, like olive oil, are centered in one particular region (California). Once you start looking, you'll be amazed at how much you can find?and how good it is.

But Where To Find The Artisanal Goods?

Your Local Farmers Market

There's usually more than just produce, especially at this time of year. Look for breads, cheeses (aged and fresh), jams, compotes, pickles, canned fruits, honey, pastas, and sauces. Ask the farmers if their products are sold anywhere else (any local grocery stores?) so you know where to find them on a non-market day. Check out the USDA's listing of Farmers Markets to find a market in your area. Or go to Local Harvest to find farms across the country that sell directly to consumers.

Your Local Specialty Goods Store

High-end grocery stores and markets like Whole Foods tend to have a specialty section where cured meats, cheeses, and other items that appeal to gourmets gather. Ask someone to point out locally made goods?there's sure to be something in almost every market, whether it's fresh pasta, fresh ricotta, ice cream, pickles, or jam.

Your Favorite Locally Minded Restaurant

If you know of an area restaurant that prides itself on local produce, chances are they?re sourcing more than just fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat. Next time you go, ask your server if they have any great local products (beyond the produce) in the kitchen. Any oils, vinegars, preserves, gelato, etc? If the bread is good, ask if they make it in-house, or get it from a local bakery. They should be happy to fill you in, and even help you seek out the products on your own. If the night's winding down, and the kitchen doesn't seem too busy, ask to talk to the chef. They may even give you a few tastes?