The new Sherman Oaks Farmer's Market

There's a new little farmer's market on Thursdays in Sherman Oaks from 5-9 pm at the corner of Riverside and Woodman behind Ross and Bank of America. You can park next to Macy's. If you come hungry and/or with children, they've got you covered because there is a lot of prepared food (chicken, kebabs, mountains of homemade potato chips, and one of the vendors has some nice looking bakery for dessert). There are also children's rides and some toys, so if you want to avoid them, be forewarned to stay to the right on the aisle where the food is located or be prepared to suffer the consequences (non-stop nagging or shelling out money for a blow-up slide, based on experience). And there are gift items and pet adoptions, but these things really don't a good farmer's market make. There are a only a few farmers in attendance, but they all have good stuff to make it worthwhile. Gala apples (normally a winter crop, but in California, just starting to come in), artichokes, corn, strawberries, honey, fresh green beans, as advertised -- and the very best cheese I have ever tasted (try the Jersey Jack if you're a purist). There was a nice band playing and it's at a time of day when the shade and sun mix peacefully and it's usually cooling down (finally). If you feel like sitting outside, maybe have a bite and take home some great stuff to cook tomorrow it's a nice little visit.