When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Rising Sun Produce
Why Rising Sun Produce is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rising Sun Produce has been a cherished fixture in Seattle's Ravenna neighborhood since it first opened its doors in 1979. Owned and operated by Virgil "Bud" Goodwin, this produce stand offers a welcoming and bright space for locals to gather and shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, and groceries. Its location at 15th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 65th Street makes it a convenient neighborhood hub where friends and families can meet up while enjoying quality, farm-fresh products. Despite a challenging setback caused by a fire in February 2024, Rising Sun Produce received remarkable support from the local community, the landlord, and loyal customers, underscoring the special place it holds in the neighborhood. The store has since reopened, completely restored from soot and smoke damage, revealing a refreshed, clean, and inviting environment. Bud Goodwin’s deep connections with farmers, especially from regions like Central Washington, ensure that Rising Sun Produce sources high-quality, fresh items that celebrate local agriculture. This combination of community spirit, locally sourced offerings, and a warm atmosphere makes Rising Sun Produce a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy shopping for wholesome foods.
Here's what people think of Rising Sun Produce
As of recent, Rising Sun Produce holds a 4.7-star rating based on 256 reviews.
The community response to Rising Sun Produce, especially after the fire in 2024, has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the store's vital role in the Ravenna neighborhood. Customers frequently praise the store for its friendly service, the exceptional freshness and variety of its produce, and its warm neighborhood feel that fosters a true sense of local connection. Positive reviews often highlight Bud Goodwin's dedication and the store's ability to maintain a small-business charm while offering high-quality fruits and vegetables that meet the needs of diverse shoppers in Seattle. The communal support seen during the fire recovery period is a testament to the strong bonds forged between Rising Sun Produce and its patrons. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the temporary closure following the fire, which naturally disrupted customers’ routines, and concerns around the pace of reopening at that time. However, once restored and reopened, these concerns have largely been alleviated as customers returned to enjoy the fresh produce and the revitalized store environment. Overall, the reviews showcase Rising Sun Produce as a resilient and much-loved neighborhood staple that balances quality, community ties, and customer care, making it a favored destination for grocery shopping and social interaction alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Julia Gulia
absolutely delicious fruits. fruit is so expensive in the grocery store and not worth it, Rising Suns produce is affordable and by FAR more delicious. i got so excited over my Pluot and White Peach that i got- but genuinely they both were the best i’ve had in years. the white peach was so perfectly ripe, sweet, juicy. the people here are so great and you can taste the love in the food!!! two thumbs up!! 🫶🏻
Ivan Martinez
My very own farmer’s market across the street. The produce is colorful and delicious. You can find it open practically everyday! From your farm to my table. Monday - Friday 8am to 8pm.
Ahmed Noor
Great to see the shop back in business after the 2024 fire! Nice people and delicious goods. Highly recommend stopping by!
Alexis Hoskins
So glad this place is finally open again! It’s the cutest little produce stand—we’re lucky to have such a gem in the Roosevelt area.
Terrence King
Sweet neighborhood produce market. Really good fruits and veggies and a nicely curated selection of other staples.
How to reach Rising Sun Produce
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Why Rising Sun Produce may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Rising Sun Produce with your friends?
Rallying at Rising Sun Produce is an inviting and memorable experience for friends looking to combine social time with fresh, high-quality food. This locally cherished produce market, nestled in a friendly and vibrant neighborhood, offers an atmosphere that feels more like a community gathering than just a shopping trip. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 250 reviews, the positive feedback reflects both the quality of the produce and the welcoming vibe cultivated by the helpful staff. The open-air market setup makes it an ideal space for groups to casually explore together, discussing and selecting fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables while enjoying the relaxed outdoor ambiance. The variety available ensures that no matter your group's culinary preferences or dietary needs, there’s something fresh and exciting to discover. Plus, the opportunity to support small, local businesses adds a meaningful dimension to your meetup, creating a shared positive impact. Whether your group is planning a picnic, cooking a meal together, or just wanting a unique outing, Rising Sun Produce offers the perfect blend of nature, quality, and community spirit that invites friends to connect over delicious, fresh food.
What activities can you enjoy at Rising Sun Produce with a group?
When you visit Rising Sun Produce with friends, the main activity is exploring the vast array of fresh, seasonal produce that is constantly changing. You can spend time wandering through crisp vegetables, vibrant fruits, and speciality items like local honey, craft ciders, and artisanal goods, making the market feel more like a treasure hunt that invites curious conversation and tasting. Picking out ingredients together encourages planning shared meals, and the store’s seconds bin offers a fun way to find discounted produce for creative cooking or baking projects. Groups often bond by discussing recipes, swapping cooking ideas, or even planning an impromptu potluck or farm-to-table style picnic using the day's finds. This hands-on experience with fresh food is enhanced by the friendly and knowledgeable staff who often share tips and stories about the produce and local growers. Additionally, given that Rising Sun operates as an open-air market, visitors can enjoy the fresh air and neighborhood sights, offering a refreshing change from enclosed shopping experiences. This combination of food exploration, social interaction, and local culture makes it an enriching activity for groups to enjoy.
What makes Rising Sun Produce perfect for group meetups?
Several features uniquely position Rising Sun Produce as an excellent spot for group meetups. First, its open, spacious layout provides ample room for groups to move comfortably without feeling crowded, accommodating lively conversations and easy browsing. The market's emphasis on locally sourced and seasonal produce supports health-conscious and eco-aware meetups, aligning with many today's groups’ values of sustainability and quality. Rising Sun also stocks specialty items like craft cider, local honey, and unique groceries, broadening options beyond just fruits and vegetables, which keeps the visit interesting for everyone. The friendly, welcoming staff creates a warm environment that encourages interaction, making it easy for groups to relax and feel at home. Furthermore, the price point offers good value, so groups can feel confident spending time and money there. Lastly, its convenient neighborhood location means it’s accessible for spontaneous gatherings without the hassle of long travel or parking difficulties, enabling stress-free planning. All these factors contribute to making Rising Sun Produce not just a market, but a vibrant community hub ideal for social experiences.
How does the quality and pricing at Rising Sun Produce enhance group experiences?
Quality and value are critical factors when choosing a location for a group to meet, and Rising Sun Produce excels in both. Customers frequently praise the freshness and taste of the produce, noting that it rivals or exceeds that available from larger chains. This means groups get to enjoy the best ingredients for shared meals or picnics, enhancing the overall experience. Many reviews highlight that the prices are affordable and fair for the high-quality offerings, with some even calling out excellent deals like the seconds bin where slightly imperfect items come at discounted rates. This allows groups to stretch their budgets further while still enjoying superior quality. The satisfaction of purchasing great produce at reasonable prices encourages repeat visits and longer stay times for groups planning events or get-togethers. When friends know they are getting fresh, delicious food without paying a premium, it removes potential friction in deciding where to meet and what to do, promoting a positive and inclusive social atmosphere.
What are the unique local touches that make Rising Sun Produce special for meetups?
Rising Sun Produce stands out because of its genuine local character and personal touch, which greatly enhances its appeal for groups seeking a unique meetup spot. The market operates as an authentic neighborhood fixture that has been valued for decades, fostering a strong sense of continuity and community. Many items inside, from farm-fresh produce to small-batch honey and craft beverages, are sourced directly from local growers and artisans, representing the region’s agricultural richness. This dedication to local supply supports small producers and strengthens community ties, making each visit feel meaningful beyond just shopping. Additionally, the staff are known for their friendliness and product knowledge, often sharing stories about the origins of their goods and tips for preparation, turning a simple shopping trip into an educational and engaging experience. These local touches create a welcoming and authentic environment that feels like an extension of home, where groups can relax, learn, and bond over shared values and tastes.
How does Rising Sun Produce support memorable social and culinary experiences?
A meetup at Rising Sun Produce is more than just buying ingredients; it’s a platform for memorable experiences rooted in food, community, and discovery. Groups often create shared culinary projects by picking fresh ingredients together, which can lead to impromptu cooking sessions or planned meal events like farm-to-table dinners, picnics, or potlucks. The variety and seasonality of the produce inspire new recipes, encouraging creativity and collaboration among friends. The accessible layout and relaxed setting offer plenty of opportunities for conversation, laughter, and enjoyment of the sensory delights of fresh food. Additionally, supporting a local business enriches the meetup with a sense of purpose and connection to the wider neighborhood. Many customers report that outings to Rising Sun become regular group traditions, highlighting how such experiences nurture deeper friendships and shared memories. By providing fresh, high-quality food in a warm social setting, Rising Sun Produce serves as a catalyst for joyful, meaningful gatherings centered on health and togetherness.
Why is the welcoming atmosphere at Rising Sun Produce ideal for groups?
The atmosphere at Rising Sun Produce is distinctly welcoming and friendly, fostering an environment where groups feel comfortable and included. Unlike large, impersonal supermarkets, this market’s smaller scale and open-air layout encourage a relaxed pace where visitors can linger and explore together without rush or stress. Reviews often note the kindness and helpfulness of the staff, who go beyond simple customer service to actively engage shoppers with advice and warmth. This genuine community spirit helps groups feel at ease, making it suitable for all age groups, from friends looking for a casual meetup spot to families bringing children to learn about fresh food. The market’s informal vibe supports easy socializing, and the outdoor setting provides pleasant surroundings that enhance group mood and interaction. This welcoming atmosphere fosters not just shopping but meaningful social connections, making Rising Sun Produce an ideal location for those seeking both quality and conviviality in their outings.
What local events or hidden discoveries can groups experience at Rising Sun Produce?
Though primarily a produce market, Rising Sun Produce often serves as a venue for local events, specials, or tasting opportunities that add unexpected layers to a group visit. Groups can take advantage of seasonal promotions or product launches that introduce unique local foods or beverages, allowing for spontaneous mini celebrations or tasting tours. The market also occasionally features artisanal goods like craft beers or honey tastings, turning a casual visit into an immersive local experience. Moreover, exploring the "seconds bin" or specialty regional products offers a fun element of discovery and excitement that friends or family can share, comparing finds and recipes. For groups interested in local agriculture or sustainable food practices, Rising Sun provides insights into what’s fresh and in season, deepening appreciation for the origins of their food. These hidden gems and events transform a simple meetup into a culturally rich outing that highlights the best of the neighborhood’s offerings.
How does Rising Sun Produce compare to other markets for group gatherings?
Compared to large grocery chains and conventional supermarkets, Rising Sun Produce offers a much more intimate and community-focused atmosphere that makes group gatherings feel special and personalized. Unlike crowded or noisy stores, the open-air market setting provides fresh air, natural light, and a relaxed pace conducive to social interaction. While other markets may carry a broader array of products, Rising Sun’s focus on high-quality, local, seasonal produce and a select range of artisanal items gives groups a curated, quality-driven experience. Pricing is often better or comparable to premium grocery stores, but with the added benefit of supporting local farmers and producers. Additionally, the market’s staff engagement and the neighborhood-rooted vibe elevate social connection beyond mere shopping, making it a preferred destination for those wanting a meaningful outing. This blend of quality, community, and atmosphere sets Rising Sun Produce apart as a premier choice for groups looking for more than just groceries in their meetups.
What should groups know before visiting Rising Sun Produce?
Before planning a meetup at Rising Sun Produce, groups should know that the market operates primarily as a fresh produce supplier, so availability can be seasonal and items may vary day-to-day depending on local harvests. It’s a good idea to check for any special events or hours in advance, especially if your group wants to participate in tastings or promotions. While the open-air setting is mostly comfortable, considering weather conditions is wise since shelter might be limited. Parking is usually available in a small lot and neighborhood street parking, making accessibility convenient but worth planning for larger meetups. Groups may want to bring reusable bags or containers to carry fresh produce and other purchases comfortably. Finally, arriving with a flexible spirit ready to explore seasonal foods and chat with the friendly staff will maximize the fun and enjoyability of the visit.
How can Rising Sun Produce inspire your next group gathering or event?
Rising Sun Produce can be the perfect inspiration for a group gathering that embraces freshness, locality, and connection. Whether planning a farm-to-table dinner party, a community picnic, or a cooking workshop, the market offers ingredients and atmosphere that naturally encourage collaboration and creativity. Groups can use their finds as a jumping-off point for shared culinary projects and storytelling around food origins. Incorporating Rising Sun’s seasonal specialties into event themes adds authenticity and excitement. Using this market as a hub, friends and families can build traditions that celebrate local food culture together, making each meetup an anticipated and rich social occasion. Its unique blend of quality, community, and open-air charm ensures that every gathering is memorable and meaningful, rooted in the joy of discovering fresh food with loved ones.