Second Avenue at 97th Street is the seam where the Upper East Side becomes East Harlem, and a produce market outside Metropolitan Hospital serves both sides of it. This is a working market — fruit, vegetables, straight prices, SNAP and Health Bucks — rather than a lifestyle one, which makes it the fastest fresh-food stop in the neighborhood. If you are in the upper 90s and tired of paying supermarket markups, walk over with a bag.
What to expect
Expect a short line of stands on the avenue sidewalk with seasonal produce and a mix of shoppers from the hospital, the projects to the north and the apartment blocks south. The market table handles SNAP/EBT and Health Bucks. It moves quickly, with the strongest selection early in the market day.
Good to know
- The market runs on Second Avenue between East 97th and 99th Streets, outside Metropolitan Hospital Center.
- The Q at 96th Street–Second Avenue is a two-block walk; the 6 at 96th Street is also close.
- SNAP/EBT and Health Bucks are accepted at the market table.
- Bring bags — this is a sidewalk market, not a supermarket.
- Earlier in the market day means better selection.
- The sidewalk is wide, flat and fully accessible.
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Common questions
Where is it?
On Second Avenue between East 97th and 99th Streets in Manhattan, outside Metropolitan Hospital Center.
Do I need to be a patient?
No — it is a public sidewalk market open to everyone.
Is SNAP accepted?
Yes, along with Health Bucks coupons that add value to produce purchases.
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