Public votes have named the Sarasota Farmers Market the best in the nation, and its vendors could not sound prouder. The market topped American Farmland Trust’s 2026 America’s Farmers Market Celebration for the People’s Choice honor, days after its 47th birthday. Each Saturday, more than 80 vendors fill the streets with everything from truffles and toffee to empanadas and coffee. Board chair Christine Nordstrom calls it “the gem of Sarasota.”
Michael Toporowski of Camelot Breads sees history in the win. “It’s based on all the hard work that people put in over the years to get to this level,” he says, and credits former market manager Phil Pagano for steering its growth. He reads the off-season timing as a sign of how much the community wants an alternative to supermarkets. “We certainly have some wonderful vendors at the market that are just starting to bring their produce,” he adds. Early harvests already fill stalls such as Kinsey’s Produce and SWFL Produce, while Homestead Hydroponics brings living lettuce alongside pasture-raised eggs.
Beekman Bakes’ orange-checkered booth is hard to miss. Born in Key West, the cookie company marks its fourth season here. “We are over the moon about it,” says co-owner Geno Zaharakis. “The Sarasota Farmers Market has been so supportive and has helped us grow as a business.” His partner, Dustin Hoffman, savors the sense of community. “It’s such a great way to meet everybody… and everybody’s happy,” he says…