On any weekend morning before it opens, the SoNo Marketplace is a flurry of activity. As its nearly fifty shopkeepers hurry to put the finishing touches on each of the charming, country-rustic stalls where they will soon be doing brisk business, it’s apparent that this retail concept—inspired by the bazaars of Europe—is something new, and fun, for local shoppers.
Enter through the barn doors of the 12,000 square foot space at the edge of Village Creek in South Norwalk, and you’ll immediately find some great things to eat — before, after, or while you shop. On your way in or out, check out the fresh and colorful produce at the outdoor Farm Stand. Once inside, grab a cup of coffee at Flat White, and something yummy from Green Leaf Organic Bakery, and work your way around the space.
The central section of this everything-under-one-roof experience is arranged to make your visit not just about shopping. You will find big wooden farm tables with comfortable chairs; vintage chandeliers hang from the ceiling. Customers can eat and mingle, as well as browse and buy from an eclectic and tempting array of food and merchandise.
Marketing executive Nancy Esteva was wrapping some delicacies at one of caterer Festivities’ venue — The Eatery — and remarking on the enthusiasm of browsers and shoppers since the Marketplace opened officially in December. “Everyone feels the great sense of community here, among the vendors,” said Nancy, noting that many of the menu items use fresh ingredients from other marketplace businesses. “There’s lots of crosspollination; it’s a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.”
In addition to The Eatery, you’ll find Italian delectables at Wise Guys Pizza Pies; a great selection at Up the Creek Wine and Beer Bar; incredible fish ‘n chips at Gotta Nibble; fully stocked satellite venues for Chocopologie sweets and Olivette’s oils and balsamic; and many more sources for fantastic fresh ingredients and ready to eat prepared items.
“You can do quite a bit of food shopping here,” notes Esteva.
The non-food stalls are packed with merchandise that you won’t find everywhere else; each little shop has a personality designed by its proprietor to reflect what’s for sale.
Vintage tableware and accessories are available at TParty; a wonderful assortment of unique children’s clothing and toys, as well as nice things for Mom (great tote bags!) at Blue Star Bazaar. You can spend an entire afternoon just checking out the mini-shops.
There’s even a nonprofit foundation in the mix. Pass On The Love, the foundation inspiration of Festivities cofounder Rosinne Chlala, offers a curated collection of donated and purchased entertaining items; all proceeds go to support safe and healthy homes and services for local families in need.
The Sono Marketplace is open Fridays and Saturdays, 10am-8pm, and Sundays, 10am-6pm. The Farm Stand is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10am-3pm. Live music and special events are frequent.
SoNo Marketplace
314 Wilson Avenue, South Norwalk