Del Mar Plaza just got a whole lot tastier. Valley Farm Market opened its doors on the ground floor in early January, bringing nearly 70 years of family grocery expertise to the North County coast. This isn’t your typical supermarket run.
This is where you’ll find a real butcher counter, sustainable seafood, and award-winning house-made specialties that have made this San Diego institution a local favorite since 1956.
What Makes This Del Mar Butcher Shop Different
Walk into Valley Farm Market, and you’ll immediately notice the old-world butcher counter. This is the real deal. No prepackaged mystery meat here. The butchers cut USDA Prime beef and specialty meats right in front of you, answer your questions about cooking temps, and can recommend the perfect cut for date night or your next dinner party.
Their award-winning products have earned them serious street cred across San Diego:
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Imperial Carne Asada (their signature marinated beef that locals swear by)
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Pollo Asado (perfectly seasoned chicken ready for the grill)
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Artisan beef jerky (made in-house with their own spice blends)
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Premium beef tallow (for cooking the way food should be prepared)
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Signature seasonings and rubs (the secret to upgrading your home cooking)
Fresh Seafood and Local Organic Produce
The seafood counter stocks sustainable fresh catches, so you can feel good about what you’re serving. The produce section focuses on local organic options, supporting California farmers and providing you with the freshest fruits and vegetables available. Perfect for putting together a fresh winter salad or prepping a romantic meal at home.
Looking for something quick? Grab their prepared foods made daily, a hot coffee to fuel your morning, or a fresh smoothie after your coastal walk. And here’s a secret worth sharing: their kitchen counter serves up what some are calling San Diego’s best wagyu smashburger with gooey melted cheese, caramelized onions, and crispy fries included.
A Three-Generation Family Story
Felix and Eleanor Marso started Valley Farm Market in 1956, and three generations later, the family still runs the business. Derek Marso, grandson of the founders and a former NFL player, now leads the business. The Del Mar location is their third store, joining the original Spring Valley market and the La Jolla shop. That kind of longevity doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because they’ve stayed true to quality products, fair prices, and treating customers like neighbors.
The Marso family doesn’t just sell groceries. They’ve hosted community events, supported local charities, and sponsored youth sports teams for decades.
If you’re curious about more family-owned spots making a difference in Del Mar, explore other local businesses that keep this community thriving.
Why Del Mar Locals Are Already Hooked
The beauty of shopping at a specialty grocery store in Del Mar, like Valley Farm, is the expertise behind the counter. Need to know how to cook that beautiful piece of halibut? Ask. Want a marinade recommendation? They’ve got you covered. Curious about which wine pairs with ribeye? The staff actually knows.
This place fills a real need on the coast. You can grab everything for taco Tuesday, stock up on premium cuts for a special meal, or pick up a quick rotisserie chicken on your way home from work. The selection of craft beer, wine, and spirits means you’re not making multiple stops.
Location: 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar (ground floor of Del Mar Plaza)
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Stop By and Taste the Difference
Whether you’re a longtime Del Mar resident or new to the North County coast, Valley Farm Market is worth adding to your weekly routine. Pick up some of their famous carne asada for taco night, talk to the butchers about the perfect filet, or try that wagyu smashburger everyone’s talking about. Supporting a family-owned grocery store in Del Mar means you’re investing in quality, community, and nearly seven decades of expertise.
Sources: valleyfarmmarkets.com, yelp.com, delmarplaza.com
Header Image Source: delmarplaza.com
