Balboa Produce Market

I was walking around Balboa St after 6pm, and saw some nice oranges at this produce market. Actually there was a variety of fresh fruits and veggies, but I was only interested in the oranges (my favorite fruit). Balboa Market is a nice neighborhood market that has a little bit of everything. The prices are, of course, higher than in a big supermarket. But I have found better customer service and just plain better treatment in smaller markets, than in chain supermarkets. Why? They want repeat business and positive opinions about the place (like Yelp reviews). When you shop in a neighborhood market, you just buy what you need. While I was paying for my oranges and chocolate chip cookies, the clerk tried to sell me ice cream. I told him it's around 57*F and drizzling outside. He said eating ice cream might make you feel warmer. Then we had an amusing discussion about San Francisco weather. Maybe 57*F is balmy for the "Avenues" because people were outside eating dinner in parklets. Anyway, Balboa Produce Market is a nice neighborhood store, and is probably a popular choice among locals. That's why it was still open pass 6pm.

They don't put prices on ANYTHING. They're priced akin to elite produce like Frog Hollow that have eye watering prices...but it's regular ol veggies like Safeway So not particularly organic, fresh or tasty. Any other produce market in the city would be priced less. Very small selection, like you'd expect from a little neighborhood market - so no points lost on that front. Everything is super clean and they have a nice chocolate and beer selection. Stay away if you'll be upset at paying the very most for produce.

Tamales are awesome!! This place is super convenient for veggies, I wish they sold some chicken/meat, then I'd shop here all the time lol. It's expensive but... that's expected.

Greatest neighborhood market. A little bit of everything and of high quality. Would much rather shop here than head down the street to the Safeway

If this small neighborhood shop has what you need or want, please buy it from him. He is a darn nice guy and he runs a nice shop. The produce is always fresh and he has a great selection of other stuff. The granolas and coffees are yummy. This is the kind of store little neighborhoods need. It seems this guy works his butt off to supply a service to the hood and eek out a living. Support and embrace that

Fruits there especially oranges are great and bananas. Although certain fruits that in my opinion should be not be put on sale anymore. I bought a pineapple today. Price was high. $4.99. Safeway is$3.99The pineapple was all dark inside and lumpy. Gives bad reputation on the neighborhood's produce market. Last time I'll but pineapple from this place.

Great place that always has excellent fresh groceries. I love the community vibe and its always nice to be able to get dinner fixings...or equality tamales when feeling lazy.

I know people want to support local businesses but I just can't recommend this one. First, nothing but nothing has a price on it. OK, so they don't want to constantly reprice fruits and vegetables, I can understand that; but other small food stores at least tag their cans. Second, while others have talked about the pleasant, friendly staff, that hasn't been my experience. But most important are the prices and quality. Sure, I'm willing to pay more for the convenience of a far Outer Richmond location. But c'mon guys, seven bucks for four average-sized tomatoes? I didn't mind paying two bucks for one (admittedly big) cucumber; although I was surprised, since I haven't seen them recently for more than $1.25, no matter what the size. But at that price, it's at least got to be edible, and this cucumber wasn't. So, no, if you want to shop locally and it's not too far for you, 25th & Clement Produce is a far better alternative.

Balboa Produce is my go-to grocer and it will be as long as I live in Outer Richmond! The produce is always fresh and the shelves are stocked with all your essential needs. Jose, the nice gentleman who runs the shop, is incredibly kind and resourceful - and offers some damn good tamales. It's a great feeling to know that during these terrible times Balboa produce is open and there for our community serving fresh and healthy foods day-in and day-out.

They always have a wider selection than expected, and sometimes something totally unexpected. Great variety of all kinds of groceries, especially when you need it last-minute. Just a minor complaint - wish they posted their hours for the public to see. I never know when they'll be open or closing.