Saturday, February 8, 2014

EAT: East End Market, Orlando, FL


Looking for a fun, healthy market to browse and find some allergen free treats in Orlando, FL? Not too far from Mickey and Minnie at 3201 Corrine Drive is the East End Market. According to its Web site, http://eastendmkt.com/, the market is "a neighborhood market and cultural food hub inspired by Central Florida's local farmers and food artisans." What better way to pair healthy food with an opportunity to grow the local economy and cultivate connections with others!
Located in a renovated church, East End Market currently houses 20 merchants. A few of my favorites include: Skyebird is an organic, vegan, gluten free, and GMO free smoothie and juice bar. Fatto in Casa provides a selection of Italian food, including some gluten free desserts. La Bretxa has all types of wild caught seafood, while Local Roots brings the farm directly to Orlando. Houndstooth Sauce Company makes saucy concoctions of BBQ sauces, marinades, dressings, etc., while Olde Hearth Bread Company has a variety of bread for those without a gluten allergy. La Femme du Fromage brings artisan cheeses from around the world. 

East End Market even has a garden out front! As soon as I stepped inside, I left the hustle and bustle of the land of Mickey and Minnie. At first, I thought I had been transferred back to my home state of NC, as the market had a feel of Asheville. Each merchant had its own unique vibe, but you could tell they were working together toward a common goal of local entrepreneurship and healthy living. Several staff members at different tenants  even spoke about others making sure I checked out this merchant or be sure to try that merchant's food. 
For those of us with food allergies, I was impressed with our selection. All the smoothies and juices at Skyebird are organic, vegan, gluten free, and GMO free. They use almond milk in their smoothies so no worries for those with dairy allergies. Fatto in Casa offers Italian treats, from appetizers to desserts. They have gluten free cookies and a flourless torte, but these are not egg free. If you have questions regarding a product, be sure to ask, as each merchant I spoke with was very knowledgeable. 

Be sure to check out my next blog where I taste-tested several items from the East End Market!

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