If the summer heat has you searching for a quick grab-and-go lunch that won’t leave you feeling guilty, visit Juniper Market in Uptown San Marco. For the past two years, owner Jenn Myers has offered up a local spin on freshly prepared foods, baked goods, specialty coffee and more.
The small café is tucked cozily in the back of Coastal Traders, and focuses on locally-sourced, vegan and gluten-free options.
With menu items such as Vietnamese Iced Coffee, Frittata of the day, and a Roasted Vegetable Sandwich, Juniper Market is a hidden gem that locals are quickly making a lunchtime hot spot.
Q&A WITH OWNER JENN MYERS
What inspired you to open Juniper Market?
When I moved here six years ago from Orlando, Florida, I missed a few of my favorite neighborhood spots. I thought a healthy eatery/coffee shop would be a great addition to the local scene here. I love St. Augustine and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I have always loved cooking and entertaining, and one of my signatures was making healthy comfort foods with a focus on seasonality.
Where did the name Juniper Market come from?
I’m an outdoor enthusiast and love Florida flora and fauna. Also, my parents named me after the Donovan song “Jennifer Juniper” and the Juniper tree is one of my favorites, so that made it a natural choice.
What makes your menu unique?
All of our items on the menu are pretty unique, whether it’s highlighting high quality ingredients or creating a healthy version of everyday classics. We work hard to use local produce and partner with vendors we believe in, who also have a heavy emphasis on quality. I believe that food is medicine. I personally feel better when I eat well and notice other people do too.
What are your best sellers?
Our best seller is most definitely our Happy Trail Cookies. For lunch, our Brie and Fig Jam Grilled Cheese and Roasted Chicken Salad sandwiches are also very popular.
How has your business grown these past couple of years?
We have amazing customers who have become like family to us. Word of mouth and our loyal following have really helped us grow in an organic fashion.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Getting to know people, as well as the creative outlet I have with cooking and experimenting with recipes.
What do you love most about St. Augustine?
What an incredible community we live in! There is a such an amazing blend of mellow beach living, southern hospitality and the arts, all at our fingertips.
Juniper Market is located at 56A San Marco Ave. To learn more about Juniper Market and to check out the daily menu updates, visit juniper-market.com or follow along with Juniper Market on Facebook.
