By Candace Byington and Chris Watson

We took a good look around at some of our favorite area markets this week as we return to a more standard S.O.S. format.  We looked at Monnette’s (on Secor), The Anderson’s (Maumee), Sautter’s Market, and Fresh Market.  The word of the week is homegrown, as our local farmers bring forth baskets of in season produce.

Monnette’s

No need to drive to Atlanta for fresh peaches! Ohio peaches are in season and ready for your dessert plate. Monette’s  has peaches from Mac Queen’s orchard. If peach preserves is too tame and ordinary, you will be pleased to find that Monette’s has a variety of Ohio made jellies, in flavors like hot pepper or FROG (a mix of figs, raspberries, orange peels and ginger-no amphibians harmed!). Other locally grown favorites on special this week include egg plant and varieties of cabbage. Lastly, sample some tasty pita chips from Sitto’s bakery in Ottawa Hills with your favorite dip or salad

The Anderson’s

All local all the time this week at The Anderson’s as they continue their usual policy of locally sourcing much of their produce.  We had to throw in the yellow plums from California because they are…well…delightful.

Sautter’s

In the market for Mexican favorites, fresh pizza and flowers? Look no further than Sautter’s in Sylvania. This week you can have a Mexican feast from start to finish with local chorizo, mango salsa and Gazpacho-find it at Sautter’s all in one trip. If you’re headed to a cookout, check our the special Dearborn brand brats, knock worst and chicken sausage, made in Dearborn, Michigan. Garnish your grilled meats with two varieties of sauerkraut, traditional and red! Tired of delivery? Fresh pizzas are on special. Finally bring home perennials for someone special with the annual flower sale.

Fresh Market

Need a new snack? Found a recipe that requires hot peppers or spices that you don’t have? Tired of the same flavors of chocolate covered espresso bean? This week at Fresh Market an unusual assortment of grapes is on special. Instead of pouring a glass of the bubbly, why not sample it right off the vine! Champagne grapes are available for a new twist on cheese and crackers. Other popular snacks like nuts or trail mix can be found in bulk. You could make your own trail mix or enjoy granola as a garnish. Nuts and granola are both available in bulk.  Fresh Market is known for its assortment of bulk coffee beans but if you need a caffeine buzz and a snack on the run, try their mixed chocolate covered espresso beans!