The East End Foundation will kick off its first official project by bringing a farmers’ market to the Esplanade along Navigation Boulevard. This is the first step in making the Esplanade into a year round attraction for both local residents and tourists.

Starting out, a group of 35 vendors will be on hand growing up to more than 40 displays. This is being coordinated by Chef and former restaurateur Roy Rodriguez. Finca Tres Robles and Last Organic Outpost will be selling seasonal fruits and vegetables from their East End urban farms. Shoppers will also find locally sourced cheese, honey, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and artisan pastas. Al Marcus, designated as the Favorite Farmers’ Market Vendor in Houston at the 2014 Houston Culinary Awards, will be selling smoked meats, bacon, salmon, brisket, pulled pork and more. Slow Dough Bakery will be selling breads and pastries and Texas T Kobe Beef will offer up locally raised beef, pork and poultry.

The market will also feature handcrafted items by local artists. This is the first farmers market in Houston to accept electronic food stamps. The grand opening on April 12 will feature strolling mariachis at 10am, music by the East End’s own Sister Sister from 11am-1pm, and a ceremony honoring beloved community member Mary Medina at 1pm.

The East End Street Market will be open every Sunday from 10am to 2pm at 2800 Navigation Boulevard, across from the original Ninfa’s.