Sharing the FF love with Jacquie Ford

What is it that you love about Frenchs Forest Markets?

There is a real sense of community at the markets which is what I love most about it.  Yes, the fresh produce is also a massive drawcard, but there is something really lovely about knowing that you're giving back directly to the growers and farmers, and not the middle man

Do you have a particular favourite trader? If so, why?

I've only been coming to the markets for a few months now but yes, there are a few favourites.  Arlington's do the most to die for yoghurts and dips, so I can't pass them without putting something in to my shopping basket.  

I also love the meat at the Free Range Butchers.  They always have some great deals on and my cooking has never tasted better thanks to the quality of their meats.

You say you are "obsessed" (which we LOVE by the way) with Frenchs Forest Markets.  When and how did this most delightful obsession start?

I've been trying to overcome a chronic illness which is essentially the aftermath of glandular fever, so home cooking with fresh produce, quality meats, fruits & vegetables has become a real priority for me.  Finding good prices for quality produce is really hard, but I have discovered one weekly bulk shop at the markets has actually seen me putting more food onto our plates each meal, and I've ended up saving money....also nothing goes to waste!

It's really lovely being able to walk around the markets, seeing all of the seasonal produce and being able to chat to the growers/farmers directly about what their picks are and what specials they have on.  I can then get really creative with my meals each week.

It's a great atmosphere, surprisingly really easy to find parking, and if you get in early you get the pick of the best stuff.  It sure as hell beats the zombie-land of trolleys and sad detached faces scouring the aisles at the supermarket each weekend.

Has "Jacquie's Frenchs Forest Market Obsession" now infiltrated the world of your friends & family where it has become now their Sunday ritual?

Now that I am in my 30's, I'm discovering that less and less of my friends are nursing hangovers on Sunday mornings....and more and more of them are keen to get to the markets.

Some discovered the markets well before me, but I've started up a car-pool with a couple of other mates.  Each Sunday we take turns picking each other up and then catch up over brekkie.

If you could sum up in 5 words why people should come and spend their Sundays at Frenchs Forest Markets, what would they be?

Eat happy, support the growers

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HUGE thanks to Jacquie for sharing her love, obsession & photos with us and we reckon if you don't already, best make it your weekly Sunday obsession too!