There are places you shop, and then there are places you experience, and Uncle Don’s Local Market on St. Simons Island is very much the latter. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed by the feeling of a true community market, where quality, freshness, and Southern hospitality come together beautifully.
Farm-Fresh Produce, Year-Round
At the heart of Uncle Don’s is its exceptional selection of seasonal produce, carefully sourced from local farmers. Most notably, the tomatoes are legendary! Vibrant, red, and bursting with flavor. Don Maxey started with just a produce stand on the side porch of an antiques store (what is now all of Uncle Don’s Local Market), and even today many people know him as the tomato man. Even in the middle of winter, you can find juicy, ripe tomatoes that taste as if they came straight from a summer garden. For many loyal customers, it’s the only place they trust for truly great tomatoes.
Homemade Local Comforts at Every Turn
In addition to fresh produce, Uncle Don’s offers fresh farm eggs and a tempting selection of heat-and-eat meals in the freezer cases, perfect for quick and comforting home dinners. Homemade treats are everywhere throughout the store. From delicate cookies and beautifully crafted cakes to rich, flaky pies, the selection feels endless. Favorites include The Organized Baker’s indulgent Kahlua Cakes, Cindy’s Bits and Pieces cookies, and Adeline’s handcrafted caramels.
Southern Staples and Coastal Flavor
Beyond sweets and baked goods, the market also shines with its variety of Southern peas, a true staple of coastal cooking. You have to try the pink eyed peas. They make my heart sing! More recently, they’ve added Wild Georgia Shrimp from Anchored Shrimp, bringing fresh, local seafood into the mix. As a result, shoppers can enjoy both land and sea offerings in one convenient stop.
Fresh Boiled Peanuts
Another must-try is their hot boiled peanuts, prepared fresh right on the property. Not only does the scent draw you in, but the flavor keeps you coming back. It’s one of those simple pleasures that perfectly captures the spirit of the South.
Altogether, Uncle Don’s isn’t just a store, it’s a gathering place, a flavor destination, and a beloved part of the St. Simons Island community.
And I haven’t even mentioned the Wine Bar yet. That’s a whole other post! Watch our short interview with Uncle Don below.
UNCLE DON’S LOCAL MARKET
Original Frederica Road Location
Mon-Fri 10am-6pm
Saturday 10am-5pm
Closed Sunday
912-634-1610
East Beach Location
1226 Ocean Blvd Unit 4, St Simons Island, GA 31522