By Mike Robinson on December 12, 2008 Verified by Email

Hamilton really is a small town masquerading as a big city. I'm surprised it even has a farmer's market. It does - and it's not too bad.

Parking at Jackson Square is a bit on the expensive side, but once you get past that (you get the 2nd hour free if your ticket is stamped by a merchant), the market is worth the visit. it's broken up into 2 sections - the smaller upper section is mostly meat and deli operations, and the much larger lower concourse is fruit, vegetables, baked goods etc. That's where most of the bargains can be had. not a lot of price variations with the meat section. I think the shops either fix their prices and/or have an agreement not to engage in competitive pricing tactics. Striploins sell for 9.99 a pound at every counter. they can be had at the St lawrence market in Toronto for $2 cheaper per pound. Same goes for chicken wings - $3.19 a pound regardless of where you go.

But the veggie and fruit stands compete, and bargains can be had. Several feature lost leaders, so if you have an eye for bargains you can do quite well. Freshness is the thing. And local, where possible.

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By Mike Robinson on December 12, 2008 Verified by Email

Hamilton really is a small town masquerading as a big city. I'm surprised it even has a farmer's market. It does - and it's not too bad.

Parking at Jackson Square is a bit on the expensive side, but once you get past that (you get the 2nd hour free if your ticket is stamped by a merchant), the market is worth the visit. it's broken up into 2 sections - the smaller upper section is mostly meat and deli operations, and the much larger lower concourse is fruit, vegetables, baked goods etc. That's where most of the bargains can be had. not a lot of price variations with the meat section. I think the shops either fix their prices and/or have an agreement not to engage in competitive pricing tactics. Striploins sell for 9.99 a pound at every counter. they can be had at the St lawrence market in Toronto for $2 cheaper per pound. Same goes for chicken wings - $3.19 a pound regardless of where you go.

But the veggie and fruit stands compete, and bargains can be had. Several feature lost leaders, so if you have an eye for bargains you can do quite well. Freshness is the thing. And local, where possible.

Write a Comment