Where: Andaz Wall Street Hotel, Park Plaza

When: Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Have you heard of the Andaz hotel chain? It's a boutique brand owned by Hyatt. We stayed at an Andaz in London on the first leg of our honeymoon and were pleased with the service, rooms, and attitude. Manhattan is home to two Andaz locations, one in Midtown near the public library and one off of Wall Street.

The Midtown location features Cafe Grumpy coffee, Mast Brothers chocolate, and a pleasing coffee bar and restaurant. The Wall Street location is even more special: it sponsors a bi-weekly farmers market, which, according to Andaz purchasing manager Joel Patraker, is the only hotel/farmers market of its kind.

Started last year, the Andaz Farmers Market, is open on Saturdays, and as a new addition this year, Wednesdays, between the hours of 8 and 6.

Except for Sunday's New Amsterdam Market, local, fresh food is hard to come by in the Wall Street area--which explains the number of Fresh Direct trucks I see roaming the streets. Patraker shares that this market is designed for workers, residents, and visitors alike. He's working diligently on developing the market into a festive neighborhood gathering spot, complete with farmers who know your name and bluegrass music.

Farmers and artisans at the market currently include Migliorelli, Beth's Farm Kitchen, Orwasher Bakery, Amazing Real Live Foods, and Down Home Acres. To be informed of the latest vendors, as well as up-to-date product information, join the Andaz Farmers Market mailing by contacting Joel Patraker.