Tuesdays are for sipping on iced drinking chocolate and eating plump raspberries at Davisville’s June Rowlands Park. I also enjoyed a whole-wheat croissant and was tempted by a potted herb bowl. You can find the farmers’ market there every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. until the fall rolls around. 

While Ontario raspberries will be on grocery store shelves closer to July, the ruby red fruit is already lining tables at farmers’ markets across the city. You could even consider growing your own for next summer; they’re super easy and wonderfully rewarding. 

While early spring is the ideal time to start, raspberries can be planted throughout the summer—though, the sooner the better. When I began growing raspberries a few years back, I didn't realize that they procreate like bunnies. Plant one cane now, and you’ll be presented with a myriad more year after year. 

A member of the rose family, raspberries are a good source of dietary fiber, magnesium, and an abundance of antioxidants including vitamin C. The delicate fruit only lasts a few days after picking; they’ll perish quickly even in the fridge. Handle them with care and eat as many as you can when they’re fresh, then freeze the rest for smoothies later. Ontario’s raspberry season ends around September. 

You’ll see raspberry studded yogurt/granola/oatmeal bowls on brunch menus in every direction. Or you could mix things up at The Good Son, where Ontario produce is always celebrated. The West Queen West restaurant is serving a personal spring favourite: Raspberry Collins. Try the classic gin cocktail, with a dash of Angostura bitters and fresh raspberries.