For the freshest picks, a visit to Miles Farmers Market is a must

By Laura Briedis

Thanks to a mild winter, all indications point to an especially bountiful produce season here in Northeast Ohio.

At Miles Farmers Market, the racks are already overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables.

“The first of the homegrown produce has started to roll in, as we are starting to get produce from our local farmers this month,” says Justin Golobek, store manager. “First in are asparagus, tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash as well as some early peppers. Plus, we will have our first batches of berries.”

With its extensive selection of produce and unique varieties, Miles serves more than just families, as lot of restaurateurs and other produce stand owners shop here.

“We have Ohio produce from more than 50 farmers all under one roof, so it is convenient for everyone to shop here for the freshest locally grown fruits and vegetables,” he says. “We are always searching for the best and will use one farm for tomatoes, another for carrots and another for corn.”

“Since we have been in business for over 51 years, we have many long-standing relationships with local farmers, so we get the freshest and tastiest produce,” he adds. “Many of our fruits and vegetables are picked in the morning on farms and are on our shelves that same day. It doesn’t get any fresher than that.”

The market has a 36-foot wet rack overflowing with leafy vegetables, roots, lettuces and more. One of its biggest selections is heirloom tomatoes, with dozens of varieties. “Our tomatoes ripen up on the vine before the farmers pick them, so they are more flavorful than those that are put in boxes and shipped,” Justin says.

In the market, fruit also takes center stage. Throughout the season there are 50 varieties of plums, 60 varieties of apples and 40 citrus sizes and types, just to name a few. Plus, in the summer there is a large selection of unique melons, from Black Diamond Watermelons that are super sweet to Honeyrock heirloom melons to the newer Mag Melon variety.

“Our outdoor patio is also in full bloom with flower baskets, as we really are a one-stop store where you can shop for virtually everything under one roof,” Justin says.

The Thrill of the Grill
With two of the biggest grilling days of the summer—Father’s Day and 4th of July—around the corner, Miles Farmers Market is stocked with all the essentials needed for tasty grilled meals.

From slabs of ribs, burgers and steaks to chicken breasts, fish fillets and kabobs, the variety and quality are among the best in town.

“We are known for our delicious hot dogs and hamburgers,” says Justin Golobek, store manager. “We ship our Old Chicago-style hot dogs to customers across the country. Since we have been selling them for 30 years, they have quite a following. These signature hot dogs are made with all beef and have lots of flavor with a nice snap.”

Miles also makes specialty burgers and sausages every day in house. “We get our inspiration from seasonal ingredients,” Justin says.

The rotating homemade craft sausages range from the Burning River Beer Brats, made with local craft beer to the Blueberry Breakfast Bangers and Smoked Gouda Chicken Sausage. And a fan favorite burger is the Frank’s Angus Steakburger made with a secret blend of ground meat.

“Just as important are the condiments,” Justin says. “We bake buns fresh in our bakery and have a large variety, from brioche to pretzel to new cornbread buns. And you will find locally made condiments, such as Cleveland Ketchup, Miles Very Own pickles as well as a variety of Amish-made condiments.”

Miles Farmers Market is located at 28560 Miles Road, in Solon. Visit MilesFarmersMarket.com for store details.