As spring flowers begin to bloom, a coveted allium overtakes Appalachia — if you know where to look. From Waynesville to Asheville, here’s where to shop for wild onions this season.
Pump the brakes as you pass this fire-engine-red roadside farm market. Inside, you’ll find a trove of community-crafted foods throughout the year, from Waynesville Soda Jerks and B&B Farms sourdough loaves to locally loved Steeple Chase Toffee. Of course, you can also expect in-season produce — keep your eyes peeled for those green ramp leaves in April — local meats and cheeses, and Amish goods.
2266 Crymes Cove Road
(828) 456-3010
facebook.com/christopherfarmsmarketWNC
Fresh, local fare finds a home at this family-owned country market that Chris Arrowood re-opened in 2011. Come late spring, you’ll find sustainably harvested ramps from the surrounding area alongside the market’s usual honey, eggs, meats, butter, livermush, stone-ground grits, and more.
889 Asheville Highway
(828) 593-8545
facebook.com/owlproduce
As a North Carolina Century Farm, Duckett’s Produce is backed by the family’s more than 100 years of agricultural heritage. Located on Radio Hill between Canton and Clyde, the stand shares in-season delights from local growers and makers. Stop by in the spring for ramps, runner beans, local cheeses, milk, and a peach or apple slushie to sip while you shop.
6160 Carolina Boulevard
(828) 283-3672
facebook.com/DuckettsProduce
This family-owned grocery in the Crabtree community partners with farms and makers across the region. In addition to fresh plants and produce — in spring, that means leafy ferns, strawberries, ramps, and half runner beans — you’ll also find jams and jellies, milk, stone-ground grits, locally raised meat, and freshly baked treats throughout the year.
6209 Crabtree Road
(828) 627-0440
presnellsproduce.com
A mainstay for fresh produce and small-batch goods in the Asheville area, the WNC Farmers Market houses three distinct sections: a retail area with in-season goods, baked treats, and gifts; a nursery and garden center; and wholesale market for restaurants and grocers. Pick up a coffee and treat to nibble from Ascend Coffee in the retail area before you start your ramp romp.
570 Brevard Road
(828) 253-1691
wncfarmersmarket.website
For 127 years, this Wilson County store has been keeping its community well supplied — by relying on people just as much as what’s on the shelves.
In art class, we learn to notice texture, form, color, and light. On the plate, those same techniques guide chefs, bakers, and makers across North Carolina, turning ingredients into compositions meant to be admired before they’re savored.
A full tray, an ice-cold sweet tea, and a midday break bring us back to our days at the K&W Cafeteria.
Explore hidden gardens and tasty places to eat and drink in Charlotte’s historic neighborhood.
