5 Places to Find Your Favourite Windsor-Made Eats and Treats
Amid tariff talks and a surge in national pride, there’s a renewed commitment to keeping our dollars in our own backyard.
Across Windsor and Essex County, more and more people are making a conscious effort to buy Canadian by supporting the local farmers, food makers, and small businesses that help our region thrive.
“There are so many benefits to shopping local,” says Steve Green, Manager of the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market. “Not only are you getting higher quality, nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables that have been picked fresh, you’re also meeting the person who is growing (or making) your food. You’re connecting city and county and building community.”
Thankfully, there’s never been a better time to shop, and snack, locally. Beyond our bountiful county harvests, there are also countless locally made treats, condiments, and meal solutions: everything from small-batch hot sauces, dressings, and dips to freshly baked breads, hand pies, chips, pickles…even award-winning libations.
Looking for local this summer? Here are five must-visit spots where you can stock up on Windsor-Essex made snacks, treats, and pantry staples:
1. Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market
Open Saturdays from spring through fall, this vibrant market is a hub for many local farms, as well as favourites like Zuleeats, What’s Poppin’ Popcorn Factory, Steve Green Foods, Dancing Swallows Vineyard, and more. With over 70 vendors, it’s the perfect place to fill your reusable bag while meeting the makers behind your favourite foods.
2. Little Foot Foods
Famous for their handmade pierogi with creative fillings like apple pie and chicken enchiladas, Little Foot Foods is a YQG treasure. Their storefront in Oldcastle also carries a wide variety of other renowned local eats including Robbie’s Gourmet Sausage Co., Soda Pop Bros, Cedar Valley pita chips, and Bubi’s Sauce.
3. The Farmhouse Market
Located in Amherstburg, this boutique market showcases the best of Essex County. You’ll find locally sourced meats, produce, preserves, and items from The Iron Kettle, Nuccelli’s Frozen Yogurt, Pretzel Central, and Hawksview Honey.
4. Lee & Maria’s
What began as a family farm has grown into a local food destination in Kingsville. Lee & Maria’s offers in-store shopping as well as home delivery, with a strong focus on regional products including Cara Pasta, Red Lantern Coffee, Lakeside Packing Co., and Daryl’s Bars.
5. Tecumseh Farmers’ Market
New on the scene this year and sure to grow in popularity, this market takes place the third Sunday of every month at Lacasse Park and brings together farmers and food artisans from across the region. Expect seasonal fruits, veggies, and more from vendors like Lisa’s Everything Sauce, Raymont’s Berries, Kranicz Orchards, and Nuts 4 Dates.
This list is by no means exhaustive. Windsor-Essex is brimming with locally owned shops, roadside stands, wineries, and breweries ready to be explored. So skip the big-box stores this season, take the scenic route, and discover the people and places serving up the tastiest eats our region has to offer.
