I’m just getting back from a trip to Austin, Texas, for the International Association of Culinary Professionals annual conference. It was my first time in Austin and I was told I had to visit the Central Market — an amazing grocery store that you’ll only find in Texas. So after my presentation was over, that’s exactly what I did. I hitched a ride with some colleagues and we drove to the original Central Market. I soon found out why this is a top tourist destination in Austin that attracts 2 million guests a year.
For starters, take a look at the chile display above. Maybe you’re only going to get this in Texas, but how wonderful to find such a wide array of dried chiles. And I love the Scoville scale that was posted above the chiles to indicate the degree of heat. There was also a salsa bar where you can buy freshly-made guacamole and a wide variety of salsas.
The produce section at the Central Market was incredible. I don’t think I’ve ever seen better anywhere. They had everything! I was especially amazed at the variety of purple produce on display. I’m quite enamored with purple vegetables and I’ve written about these vibrant-hued vegetables several times, including In Praise of Purple Produce. Take a look at these beautiful purple baby artichokes…
Here’s purple kohlrabi…
and purple carrots.
I’ve never seen a bigger variety of fresh mushrooms.
Take a look at these giant portabellas.
Central Market is a must-stop for anyone interested in tracking trends, and I spotted several innovative products while we were there. For instance, there was an entire section of dinner kits that shoppers can take home to make quick meals — like this vegetable fried brown rice kit. All of the kits included pre-cut, pre-measured ingredients that were ready for quick assembly at home. Great idea, I think.
The bulk section featured several interesting products, including this falafel mix to easily make this Middle Eastern favorite at home.
The packaged food section included products I’ve not seen anywhere, like these flavored kale chips.
Nut butters are coming on strong as a trend, and I spotted several different varieties…
Blood orange has become a popular flavor and I spotted this Italian soda…
I was only in Austin for three days, and most of the time in the conference hotel. The Central Market was my only real side-trip — and it was well worth it. I found it especially incredible that Austin has Central Market, as well as the original Whole Foods — which is a full block long. Some nice food shopping in Austin, I must say.
Do you know the Central Market?
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Wow, that salsa bar looks amazing!!
How fun! I wish I had made it there, but I guess there is always a next time. It was great meeting you.
Thanks for the visit, Kalyn. Yes, the store was truly amazing! And it was was great meeting you too. Loved your session!
Central Market is probably my most missed thing about Texas!
When we lived in Dallas-Ft Worth (Southlake, to be exact), I lived just a mile or two down the road from a Central Market. It was probably what sold us on our neighborhood
It was the first destination I took my husband to when we were visiting before we relocated there. For folks who’ve never been, it’s quite a surprise. And much like Lauren above… it’s probably what I miss most.
Really? I had no idea! It’s a fantastic store…and I became so envious, wanting one in my neighborhood!
Oh, how I had visited Central Market! It looks amazing, your pics seem to do it justice! Visiting grocery stores and markets when I travel is one of my absolute favorite things. At least I got the giant Whole Foods down!
We moved to Fort Worth about 3 years ago and moved to a house that was just a few blocks from Central Market. We had no idea what it was, but fell in love within days. I still have trouble describing it to people. it’s a cross between Whole Foods, Trader Joes, and an Upscale grocery store..
This looks fantastic, I’ve never heard of the Central Market. I recently posted about Kaia though, they are a great company.
Central Market is a regular stop during my grocery shopping Saturday morning! I love that place, and I am fortunate to live in Coppell, Texas (suburb of Dallas) where there are several within a short drive from me. Next time you are in Austin, make sure to stop at the Whole Foods there at 5th and Lamar. It is the flagship store- and GINORMOUS. Truly a beautiful place, too
Glad your time in Texas was well worth the heat 
HEB sells some Central Market stuff. I just tried the delicious Italian soda. Yum for my tum.