When I first moved to Kansas, I noticed a buzz on the NextDoor app about a proposed neighborhood Public Market. There were several posts asserting concerns and challenges to the plan. I was watching the conversation and silently rooting for the all-clear to proceed with the creation of the Lenexa Public Market. The same wrangling occured years ago in my hometown of San Diego. Public Markets were just becoming a thing back then, and they were still a dicey unknown. But today, the Liberty Public Market on the peninsula of Point Loma is a major tourist draw. As a matter of fact, I am returing to San Diego this summer, and I booked a hotel at Liberty Station just so I could visit the Public Market every day of my stay.
Inside the Market are food vendors. Cardboard Corner Cafe has innovative menu options and tons of table game choices.
I can’t tell you how thrilled I am that international restaurants are so close to my home. There are several at the Lenexa Public Market, including African Dream Cuisine. These foods are the real deal, made with their cultural recipes and expertise.
Mr. D’s Coffee is in the midde of the Market. It is a huge hit in the community. I look forward to each new season when they roll out their special menu. The seasonal drinks are created as a group effort by all the baristas.
The extensive patio of the Lenexa Public Market is a favorite gathering place. People enjoy sitting around the firepits during the winter, and crowds are drawn to the oudoor live music during the summer.
The Market brings in the best local bands. This one, the Suburbans, had the audience on the dance floor the entire time.
On Saturday mornings, the grounds are filled with the Lenexa Farmer’s Market. There are food vendors, local farm produce, gift items, and even more live music!
The Next to Nature Farm offers honey, balms, soap, lip gloss, and many other hand-curated items.
Bare is a Venezuelan food vendor that serves homemade Arepas (a sandwich). Their distinction is their handcrafted tartar sauce, which they use in most of their dishes. And I use it only with fish. I love learning new ideas.
Artisan Kombucha was a momentous find for me. I have been on the hunt for a kombucha that doesn’t have a vinegary flavor, that I have to gag down. Artisan does not! The Honey Lavendar is a treat to drink. Ben, the owner, had been making it on his farm, just for private use. Seven years ago, a friend recommended he go commercial. Thankfully he did. He now provides 27 flavors. I am going to stock up this Saturday. I am already almost out of this week’s supply.
BekyFood is another Venazuelan food vendor who makes a variety of savory Pastelitos. This is why people come to Farmer’s Markets. You can find unique items, that are personally made.
At the Lenexa Farmer’s Market, we get serenaded as we shop. It creates such a pleasant experience. This band is the Gypsy Fingers.
Finish off your visit to the Lenexa Public Market, with a stop in the lobby. Every month they roll out a new themed-art display.
The Lenexa Public Market provides visitors with events throughout the year. Check their schedule and come get in on the fun.
I am so thankful the city plunged ahead with developing the Public Market. These Markets are definitely tourist destinations. I look for them whenever I travel. They are happening places.