What is in season in San Luis Obispo. and what to order when the market changes.
Spring
- Strawberries: Santa Maria Valley berries flood the Thursday and Saturday markets from March; the first flats sell out by 19:00.
- Asparagus and spring greens: Edna Valley truck farms bring asparagus, peas and lettuces to the market stalls through April and May.
Summer
- Stone fruit: Peaches, nectarines and apricots from north county orchards peak in July; market vendors sell seconds cheaply for jam.
- Sweet corn and tomatoes: The Thursday barbecue pits grill corn beside the tri-tip; dry-farmed tomatoes arrive from late July.
Autumn
- See Canyon apples: The apple stands on See Canyon Road between SLO and Avila Beach sell heirloom varieties and fresh cider from September.
- Harvest and crush: Edna Valley crush runs September to November; tasting rooms pour barrel samples and harvest-week specials.
Winter
- Citrus and avocados: Backyard-scale citrus and coastal avocados fill winter market tables; blood oranges peak in January and February.
- Restaurant Month deals: January's SLO Restaurant Month puts prix-fixe menus across more than 50 kitchens in the coldest, quietest weeks.