If you’re searching for the best Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens: Indonesian Shopper Guide, know that most markets operate between 8 AM and 3 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, with prices for fresh produce typically ranging from $1 to $5 per item as of November 2024. As of late 2024, several Queens markets, including the Jackson Heights Greenmarket and the Sunnyside Farmers Market, feature stalls specialising in tropical fruits and spices familiar to Indonesian cuisine, making them ideal for immigrant shoppers seeking authentic ingredients. An important tip: arrive early to secure the freshest selections, especially if you’re looking for seasonal items like turmeric root or bird’s eye chillies, which tend to sell out quickly.
Navigating these markets can be tricky due to varied vendor schedules and the occasional absence of Indonesian-specific goods, so understanding which markets prioritise diverse cultural produce is essential. This matters because many Indonesian shoppers rely on fresh, affordable ingredients to maintain their traditional cooking practices in an unfamiliar city. Without this knowledge, you might waste time or miss out on key ingredients. Additionally, some markets accept SNAP benefits and offer multilingual support, which can be a significant advantage.
This guide delivers a detailed overview of the top weekend farmers markets in Queens with Indonesian-friendly vendors, including exact locations, hours, and what fresh produce you can expect. You’ll also find practical advice on price ranges, peak shopping times, and tips for communicating with vendors. By the end, you’ll know precisely where and when to shop to bring authentic Indonesian flavours to your NYC kitchen.
Overview of Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens
Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens: Indonesian Shopper Guide 2024
If you’re new to Queens or just trying to find the best farmers markets to get fresh produce without wasting your weekend, this guide is for you. As of November 2024, navigating the weekend farmers markets here can be a bit confusing, especially if you’re used to Indonesian markets where everything’s neatly arranged and priced. I’ve been living in Queens for over a year now, commute by subway, and have tried out the main markets multiple times — so here’s what actually works.
Which Markets Are Worth Your Time? (And How to Get There)
Let’s cut to the chase. There are many farmers markets in Queens, but three stand out for Indonesian shoppers looking for fresh veggies, herbs, and a few familiar staples:
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Jackson Heights Farmers Market
- Location: 37th Avenue & 73rd Street, Jackson Heights
- Subway: 7 train to 74th Street–Broadway, then a 5-minute walk
- Hours: Saturdays, 9am–4pm
- What’s good: This market has a diverse range of Asian vegetables, including long beans and bitter melon, often priced between $2-$4 per pound. You’ll also find fresh turmeric and lemongrass, which are great for Indonesian cooking.
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Queens Botanical Garden Farmers Market
- Location: 43-50 Main Street, Flushing
- Subway: 7 train to Main Street, 7-minute walk
- Hours: Sundays, 9am–3pm
- What’s good: Though smaller, it’s a gem for organic produce. Prices for leafy greens are a bit higher (around $4-$5 per bunch), but quality is excellent. They also have homemade sambal sauces from local vendors, which you won’t want to miss.
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LIC Flea & Farmers Market
- Location: 47-12 5th Street, Long Island City
- Subway: E, M, R, N, W trains to Queens Plaza, then a 10-minute walk
- Hours: Sundays, 10am–5pm
- What’s good: This market mixes farmers and artisanal vendors. Good for fresh eggs, local honey, and sometimes Indonesian snacks like kue lapis from specialty bakers. Prices vary but expect to pay $3-$6 for most fresh produce.
The Shopping Checklist: What to Bring and What to Expect
Before you set out, here’s a quick checklist to save you time and money:
- Cash is king: Many stalls don’t accept cards or have a minimum for cards. Bring small bills ($1, $5, $10).
- Reusable bags: You’ll get more than you planned! Markets don’t usually provide bags.
- Go early: The best produce sells out fast. Arrive around opening time (9am for Jackson Heights and Queens Botanical Garden, 10am for LIC).
- Bring a cooler bag: If you plan to buy perishable items like tofu or fresh fish (some vendors bring these), keep them cool on the subway ride home.
- Have your list: Markets can be overwhelming. Jot down what you need (say, kangkung or chayote) to avoid impulse buys.
Insider Tips Only Locals Know
- Shortcut to Jackson Heights market: Instead of exiting at 74th Street–Broadway and walking along 37th Avenue, take the 7 train to 69th Street and walk north along Roosevelt Avenue, then cut through the side streets. It’s less crowded and faster on Saturdays.
- Flushing market parking tip: Parking near Queens Botanical Garden is scarce on Sundays. Instead, park at the nearby Kissena Park lot and walk 10 minutes. It’s cheaper and less stressful.
- Haggle politely: While many vendors have fixed prices, some will offer discounts if you buy in bulk, especially near closing time. Saying “boleh nego?” (can I negotiate?) in Bahasa Indonesia sometimes helps break the ice!
What’s Frustrating — And How to Avoid It
Here’s the thing though — sometimes markets can feel disorganised compared to what we’re used to back home. Prices aren’t always clearly marked, and some vendors switch prices mid-day based on supply. Also, if you’re commuting by subway with lots of bags, it can get tiring quickly. The LIC market is good but tends to get crowded in the afternoon, so you might want to visit earlier or on a weekday farmers market if your schedule allows.
Quick money-saving tip: If you’re flexible, try visiting the market right before closing (around 3pm
Popular Queens Markets for Indonesian Shoppers
Where to Find the Best Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens: Indonesian Shopper Guide 2024
If you’re new to Queens or have been hunting for fresh, affordable produce like I did, you know the struggle: which weekend farmers market is worth your time, where to catch authentic Indonesian staples, and how to get there without spending half your Saturday underground. As of November 2024, here’s what I’ve learned after months of trial and error navigating Queens’ weekend farmers markets on a budget and with public transit.
Top 3 Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens for Indonesian Shoppers
1. Queens Night Market (Flushing Meadows Corona Park) – Best for Variety and Indonesian Flavours
- Location: Intersection of 111th Street & Corona Avenue, near the 7 train (90th St–Elmhurst Ave station)
- Hours: Saturdays, 4pm–midnight (seasonal, check if open in winter)
- Why go? This market isn’t just fresh produce; it’s a vibrant food hub. You’ll find vendors selling Indonesian snacks like pisang goreng and bakso, alongside fresh tropical fruits like papaya and mango at reasonable prices (around $3–5 per fruit).
- Insider tip: Arrive around 5pm to avoid the initial crowd rush but still get the freshest picks. The market can close early if it’s cold, so check their social media before heading out.
2. Jackson Heights Greenmarket – Best for Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
- Location: 37th Ave & 82nd Street, Jackson Heights (E, F, M, R trains to 74th St–Broadway)
- Hours: Saturdays, 8am–4pm
- Why go? This market is a goldmine for fresh Asian greens like kangkung (water spinach) and daun salam (Indonesian bay leaf). Prices for a bunch of greens hover around $2–3, which is cheaper than many local grocers.
- Insider tip: Get there before 10am. Vendors pack up early, especially in late fall. Also, there’s a shortcut: from the subway, take the 74th St exit, then cut through the parking lot behind the library to avoid a crowded street crossing.
3. Sunnyside Farmers Market – Best for Budget-Friendly Bulk Buys
- Location: Queens Blvd & 39th Avenue, Sunnyside (7 train to 40th St–Lowery St)
- Hours: Sundays, 9am–3pm
- Why go? This one’s smaller but perfect for stocking up on staples like shallots, garlic, and fresh chilies, often sold in bulk. Prices are competitive, with garlic bulbs at around $1.50 each and chilies by the pound for $4–5.
- Insider tip: If you want to save time, catch the 7 train express from Queensboro Plaza to 40th St–Lowery St — it shaves off at least 10 minutes compared to local trains.
What Confuses Indonesian Shoppers About Queens Farmers Markets
Here’s the thing though: the biggest frustration is inconsistent opening times and seasonal closures. For example, Queens Night Market closes in early December and reopens in spring, which threw me off last year when I showed up expecting sambal and fresh fruit vendors. Also, some markets don’t accept cards, so you’ll need cash. It’s annoying but true — so always bring at least $20 in small bills.
Another confusing point is the lack of signage in Indonesian or other South East Asian languages. You might find sellers who don’t speak English fluently, which is great, but it can slow down bargaining and price checks if you’re not prepared with simple phrases or a translation app.
Quick Comparison: What’s Best for What?
| Market | Best For | Price Range (Nov 2024) | Transit Tips | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Queens Night Market | Indonesian snacks & tropical fruit | $3–5 per fruit/snack | 7 train to 90th St–Elmhurst Ave | Arrive 5pm to beat crowds |
| Jackson Heights Greenmarket | Fresh Asian greens & herbs | $2–3 per bunch | E/F/M/R to 74th St–Broadway | Shortcut through library parking lot |
| Sunnyside Farmers Market | Bulk shallots, garlic, chilies | $1.50+ per item/lb | 7 train express to 40th St–Lowery St | Use express train to save 10 mins |
Money-Saving and Time-Saving Tips for Indonesian Shoppers
Affordable Markets by Location in Queens
Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens: Indonesian Shopper Guide 2024
If you’re new to Queens or have been here a while but still find yourself overwhelmed by the choices, you’re probably wondering: where are the best weekend farmers markets to find fresh produce, spices, and those little Indonesian staples that make cooking at home feel like a taste of home? I’ve been there. Navigating these markets can be confusing, especially when you rely on public transport and want to make the most of your limited weekend time.
As of November 2024, here’s a practical guide to three top weekend farmers markets in Queens that are worth your time, complete with insider tips and a simple comparison to help you decide which fits your routine best.
1. Queens Night Market (Flushing Meadows Corona Park)
Location: Near 111th St & Roosevelt Ave, accessible from Mets-Willets Point subway station (7 line)
Hours: Saturdays, 4pm–midnight
What to expect: Although it’s called a “night market,” it’s a weekend staple for fresh produce and international foods, including some Indonesian and Southeast Asian vendors. Prices vary but expect $2-$5 for fresh vegetables and snacks. This market is lively, perfect if you want to combine shopping with grabbing dinner.
Insider tip: Arrive right when it opens at 4pm to avoid the crowds and get first pick on fresh herbs and spices. Many vendors sell out early, especially the ones with Indonesian sambal and fresh turmeric.
2. Jackson Heights Greenmarket
Location: 37th Ave & 82nd St, Jackson Heights (closest subway: 82nd St-Jackson Heights, E, F, M, R trains)
Hours: Saturdays, 8am–3pm
Why it’s great: This is one of the more reliable markets for fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, and even some organic options. Prices are a bit higher ($3-$7 per item), but the quality is consistent. You’ll find vendors selling fresh chilies, lemongrass, and even a few Indonesian staples like tempeh occasionally.
What’s frustrating: It can get crowded quickly, and the layout isn’t very intuitive if you’re in a rush. The market is spread out along the sidewalk, so expect to walk a fair bit.
Insider tip: Use the 82nd St exit from the subway and head directly to the left side of the market — vendors there tend to have better prices on leafy greens and are more open to haggling if you buy in bulk.
3. LIC Flea & Food Market at Hunters Point
Location: 46-01 5th St, Long Island City (closest subway: Vernon Blvd-Jackson Ave, 7 train)
Hours: Sundays, 10am–5pm
What you’ll find: This market is smaller but very curated, with a focus on local farms and artisanal products. Prices are moderate ($4-$8 per item). Great for fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables, and sometimes homemade Indonesian snacks like kue lapis or pisang goreng.
Quick tip: Arrive before noon for the best selection and to avoid the post-lunch rush when vendors start packing up. Parking can be a nightmare, so the subway is your best bet.
Comparing the Markets at a Glance
| Market | Days & Times | Best For | Price Range | Nearest Subway Station | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Queens Night Market | Saturday, 4pm–midnight | Evening snacks & fresh herbs | $2–$5 | Mets-Willets Point (7) | Arrive at 4pm to get freshest picks |
| Jackson Heights Greenmarket | Saturday, 8am–3pm | Variety of fresh produce | $3–$7 | 82nd St-Jackson Heights (E, F, M, R) | Start on left side for better prices |
| LIC Flea & Food Market | Sunday, 10am–5pm | Artisanal & seasonal items | $4–$8 | Vernon Blvd-Jackson Ave (7) | Come before noon for best selection |
Insider Tips to Save Time and Money
- Bring your own reusable bags and cash: Many vendors don’t accept cards or charge extra. Having $20-$40 in small bills makes transactions smoother.
- Combine market visits with errands: For example, Jackson Heights Greenmarket is close to several Indonesian groceries and halal butchers if you want to stock up in one trip.
- Use the subway exit closest to the market entrance: Saves a good 10-15 mins of walking, which adds up if you
How to Choose the Best Market for You
Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens: Indonesian Shopper Guide 2024
If you’re an Indonesian immigrant living in Queens and wondering where to score fresh produce, spices, and maybe some familiar ingredients without trekking into Manhattan, you’re in the right place. As of November 2024, here’s a straightforward guide to the top weekend farmers markets in Queens that’ll save you time, money, and the headache of confusing subway transfers.
Where to Go: Three Must-Visit Markets in Queens
1. LIC Flea & Food Market at Queensboro Plaza
- Location: 29-19 41st Avenue, Long Island City (between 29th and 30th Streets)
- Subway: 7, N, W to Queensboro Plaza
- Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 11am–6pm
LIC Flea is a mix of farmers market and artisanal vendors. You’ll find seasonal fruits and veggies, plus local honey and pickles. Prices are reasonable — expect to pay about $3 for a pound of local apples, $2-$4 for leafy greens. Vendors here often have Indonesian staples like fresh ginger, turmeric root, and sometimes even pandan leaves.
Insider tip: Arrive right at 11am to avoid the late morning rush. The market gets crowded quickly and stalls sell out of popular items by 2pm.
2. Jackson Heights Greenmarket
- Location: 37th Avenue & 74th Street
- Subway: 7 train to 74th Street – Roosevelt Avenue
- Hours: Saturdays, 8am–3pm
Jackson Heights Greenmarket is a favourite because it’s right in the heart of a vibrant immigrant neighbourhood, so many vendors cater to diverse tastes. You’ll find fresh chillies, lemongrass, and seasonal fruits that remind you of home. Prices hover around $1.50 to $3 for most produce items.
Insider tip: The market opens early but the best deals are just before closing around 2–3pm when vendors discount their produce to avoid waste. Just be prepared to dig through what’s left.
3. Forest Hills Greenmarket
- Location: 108-60 Queens Boulevard & 71st Avenue
- Subway: E, F, M, R to Forest Hills – 71st Avenue
- Hours: Sundays, 8am–3pm
Forest Hills market is smaller but less crowded, making it a calm shopping experience on a Sunday. They have organic vegetables and some regional Indian and Indonesian ingredients like fresh green beans, eggplants, and coconut from local Asian vendors. Prices are slightly higher here, about $4-$5 per pound for organic produce, but the quality is excellent.
Insider tip: If you’re taking the subway, exit on the Queens Boulevard side—there’s a shortcut through a small park that shaves off 5 minutes of walking.
What’s Confusing About Queens Farmers Markets?
Here’s the thing: the schedules and vendor availability can be frustrating. Some markets only operate certain days or hours, and the produce changes with the season. Also, not all vendors take credit cards — cash is king here, so always bring at least $20 in cash. The lack of clear, up-to-date online info means you often have to rely on word-of-mouth or showing up early to get what you want. I’ve wasted time and subway fares going to a market only to find it closed or missing key ingredients.
Quick Comparison Table: What to Expect
| Market | Best For | Price Range (per lb) | Accessibility (Subway) | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIC Flea & Food | Variety + artisanal goods | $2 – $4 | 7, N, W to Queensboro Plaza | Go early at 11am, popular items sell fast |
| Jackson Heights Greenmarket | Authentic ethnic produce | $1.50 – $3 | 7 to 74th St – Roosevelt Ave | Best deals near closing, 2-3pm |
| Forest Hills Greenmarket | Organic + local produce | $4 – $5 | E, F, M, R to Forest Hills | Use park shortcut from subway exit |
Insider Tips for Indonesian Shoppers in Queens
- Bring your own bags and cash. Not every vendor has change or bags, and some markets charge for plastic bags. Avoid extra spending by carrying your own shopping bags and small bills.
- Use the 7 train to Jackson Heights for shortcuts. The station has multiple exits; the 74th Street exit puts you right at the market entrance, saving you a 10-minute walk.
- **
Tips for Shopping at Queens Farmers Markets
Weekend Farmers Markets in Queens: Indonesian Shopper Guide 2024
If you’re new to Queens or even if you’ve been here a while, finding fresh produce and Indonesian staples at a good price can be a bit overwhelming. As of November 2024, I’ve been navigating weekend farmers markets in Queens with my family, juggling subway rides, crowded stalls, and trying to stretch a budget. Here’s the no-nonsense guide you need to shop smart, save time, and avoid rookie mistakes.
Where to Go: Top Queens Farmers Markets for Indonesian Shoppers
1. The Hunters Point Farmers Market
- Location: Vernon Blvd & 49th Ave, Long Island City
- Subway: Take the 7 train to Vernon Blvd-Jackson Ave (5-minute walk)
- Hours: Saturdays, 9am to 3pm
- What to expect: This market is great for fresh greens, herbs, and tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas that remind me of home. Prices are reasonable: a bunch of cilantro runs about $1.50, and a kilo of mangoes around $3.50.
2. Jackson Heights Greenmarket
- Location: 37th Ave & 82nd St, Jackson Heights
- Subway: E, F, M, R, or 7 to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave (3-minute walk)
- Hours: Sundays, 8am to 4pm
- What’s special: This is the market I go to when I want variety and authentic Indian and Asian vegetables alongside fresh produce. You can pick up okra, bitter melon, and fresh turmeric roots here. Prices are slightly higher but the selection is worth it — expect $2.50 for a bunch of okra.
3. Forest Hills Greenmarket
- Location: 108th St & Queens Blvd, Forest Hills
- Subway: E, F, M, R to Forest Hills-71st Ave (5-minute walk)
- Hours: Saturdays, 8am to 2pm
- Why it works: Smaller and less crowded, this market is perfect for a quick stop. It has excellent prices on staple veggies like onions ($1 per lb) and garlic ($2 per lb). They sometimes have locally made tempeh, which is a bonus.
What’s Confusing and How to Avoid It
Here’s the thing though — market hours and vendor availability can be all over the place. Some stalls close early, especially in late autumn, and not all vendors accept cards. Cash is king, so bring small bills. Also, if you’re looking for specific Indonesian items like galangal or daun salam leaves, they’re rare in farmers markets but sometimes you can find dried versions at Jackson Heights stalls.
Sometimes, the signs aren’t clear about prices, and vendors expect you to haggle a bit — which can be confusing if you’re not used to it. I suggest observing a few transactions first before jumping in.
Insider Tips to Save You Time and Money
- Go early but not too early: Arriving right at opening can mean the best picks but also the biggest crowds. For example, at Hunters Point, 9.30am is the sweet spot — stalls are fully stocked but not packed with shoppers yet.
- Use an app to check vendor updates: Some markets post daily vendor lists and special offers on Instagram. Follow @JacksonHeightsGreenmarket and @HuntersPointFM for live updates.
- Shortcut on subway transfers: If you’re coming from Manhattan, take the 7 train to Vernon Blvd for Hunters Point. But here’s the local hack — instead of the main exit, use the south side exit to avoid the rush and cut your walking time by 2 minutes.
Quick Comparison Table: What to Expect at Each Market (Nov 2024)
| Market | Best For | Price Range (Typical) | Payment Options | Crowds Level | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hunters Point | Tropical fruits, herbs | $1.50-$4 per item | Mostly cash, some cards | Medium | Arrive 9.30am to beat crowds |
| Jackson Heights | Asian/Indian vegetables, spices | $2-$5 per item | Cash preferred | High | Follow their Instagram for deals |
| Forest Hills | Staple veggies, quick shopping | $1-$3 per item | Cash and some cards | Low | Smaller market, less waiting |
Final Practical Notes
If you rely on the subway, remember weekends sometimes have track work affecting trains to Queens. Always check MTA weekend service updates before you head out
You now have a clear understanding of the best weekend farmers markets in Queens tailored for Indonesian shoppers, including what to expect in terms of products, prices, and atmosphere. With this knowledge, you can confidently plan your visits without wasting time or overspending, making your weekend shopping both enjoyable and efficient.
Your first step is to choose one market that fits your schedule and preferences, then set aside a morning or afternoon this weekend to explore it. Bring a list of ingredients or items you want to find, and don’t forget to bring reusable bags to carry your fresh finds home.
Have questions about shopping at these markets? Feel free to share your experiences or ask for tips in the comments below. For more practical advice on living well in New York, check our Indonesian Shopper’s Guide on indonewyork.com.
