Go out of your way. Step away from the Safeway cart and explore Berkeley. Grab your reusable shopping bags, hop on the 51B and head over to the parking lot of 1701 San Pablo.

Don’t let the distance deter you from hitting up this adorable little farmers’ market. When my roommate told  me about The Beehive Market and its whereabouts, I admit that I was hesitant. Regardless, my roommate and I made the trek to San Pablo this last Saturday afternoon and are both more than satiated with the food we ate and purchased.

Deciding to enjoy the gorgeous weather, we decided to walk. As we passed the North Berkeley BART, the same thought simultaneously popped into our minds: “This market better be worth the long-ass walk.”

Then we heard music, really good music. We entered the market and was met with a small array of vendor stands, the background filled with the pleasant music of San Francisco-based band, Social Studies (Listen to their music on their myspace and visit their website). The Beehive Markey is by no means large but, then again, great things come in small packages, right?

The answer is yes! The Beehive Market is a treasure in that it’s diverse in its products, customers, and vendors. Buy your girlfriend, sister and mom a pair of one-of-a-kind, handmade earrings. Eat a grilled eggplant-red pepper-mozzarella panini from Borro Cart. Or indulge in some fattening, artery-clogging Filipino food (as a Filipino and still getting acquainted with the Bay, I was beyond stoked at the sight of the words: “chicken adobo” and “lumpia”). Stock up on some organic pears and tomatoes. Even adopt a rescue bunny!

Though I really wanted to take home a bunny, I settled with a tub of lentil curry and spinach bolani from the East & West Gourmet Afghan Foods table. The man working the stand was patient and more than happy when it came to giving out samples. When we first walked up, he asked us with a huge, excited smile if we wanted to try his favorite combination (spinach bolani, garlic mint cheese, cilantro pesto with a smidgen of sweet jalapeno jelly. Delicious.). It was tempting to buy one of each product, especially with the guy’s infectious attitude and enthusiasm with all the combos. Actually, it was tempting to buy and try everything at the Beehive Market.

With some publicity and loyal visitors (who bring and tell their friends), this little, independent farmers’ market can grow into something spectacular. Support local Berkeley artists, growers, and business owners. Take some time out of your busy Berkeley lives, ride your bike down Virginia Street every Saturday, open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and take in the charm of the Beehive Market. (Broken bike? Fret not, for there’s a bike repair station as well!)

For more information on the vendors and whatever curiosities you have, visit The Beehive Market’s website.

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