Rochester Public Market

280 Union Street North, Rochester NY 14609
Open Tuesdays & Thursdays 6am to 1pm; Saturdays 5am to 3pm

Back in the Spring when I was still in upstate New York, I was introduced to one of the most eclectic and largest outdoor markets I've been to so far.  Right in the heart of downtown Rochester, NY is the Rochester Public Market.  From bright and beautiful flowers, freshly picked produce, and baked goods, to stands filled with an array of spices, chickens, goats and rabbits, and the indoor fish market (Tip: hold your breath when you walk by this section!) --this place is just huge.  It's nearly impossible to go home empty-handed.

Among my favorites include the many different choices of homemade pasta by the 1/2 lb from Flour City Pasta, bunches of locally grown rhubarb available in the summertime, and freshly sprouted herbs for sale.  Even more, you can catch local musicians spread throughout the market on any given day.  And horse-mounted police can be found around the market too!    

On one of the weekends at the market, I just happened to witness a local shopper haggling for a goat with the vendor at the animal stand, and I couldn't help but think that this is the first time I've EVER seen something like this.  In the middle of the city?! Only at the market!  

Make sure to stop into the local establishments that line the one side of the market while you are in the area, including Union Bakery and VM Giordano Imports European Cheese Shop.  Boulder Coffee is conveniently situated at the entrance to the market as well, so you can stop and grab a cup of your favorite hot or cold beverage before you peruse the shops.   

The Beat Cup Cafe

660 Linton Boulevard, Delray Beach FL
Open Monday through Thursday, 10am to 3pm
Friday and Saturdays, 10 am to 3pm & 9pm to 2am

An eclectic little cafe off the beaten path--I just happened to stumble upon this fun little spot while in-between meetings today, thanks to a little Google searching and a super-grumbly tummy--and have to say that this is one of the most unique concepts I've seen so far while in South Florida.  As soon as I walked in, I was immediately drawn in by the industrial-esque exposed pipes and beams that line the walls and ceiling, the many pieces from local artists hanging throughout the space, the mini soundstage complete with a drum set, chalkboard menu boards hovering over the cafe counter, and a foosball table in the back corner.  To the left, an open doorway leads to a superbly awesome little salon, Salon Resta, that is connected to the cafe--an unexpected and creative feature that really adds to the charm and atmosphere to this place.

The Beat Cup Cafe

The restaurant is currently undergoing a menu change, removing some less popular items to make room for some new favorites so the selection was slightly limited for lunchtime--but I was more than impressed and my tastebuds very satisfied from what I ordered.  A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, roasted red pepper, bacon, chipotle mayo, and goat cheese between a toasted ciabatta roll.  To drink, a delicious 'cold brew' coffee with half and half, perfect for a mid-afternoon caffeine fix.

They serve up hot and cold beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, as well as breakfast and lunch.    A broad genre of musical talent can be enjoyed here on certain days of the week as well.

I love coming across gems like this--totally added to one of my new spots to frequent.