These were some of the items on special at Newflower Farmers Market, just opened this week at the old south Hobby Lobby (6920 Manchaca Road). People were walking around with stacks of strawberry packages. The lobster tails weren’t even going into the case; they were selling very fast before they even got to the counter.

Meat and fish appeared to be very fresh, even featuring a fine selection of natural lamb. There’s housemade sausage prepared daily, and we’re trying two varieties. The deli counter was in a state of confusion when it came to service, but I’m sure that will be ironed out. The case is full of Boar’s Head products, and sushi-making was proceeding apace. There are bulk nuts, spices, candies, herbs, and other items. The florist department is much like the ones in the old Albertsons. Cosmetics, vitamins, and supplement aisles were not checked out, but they were busy. Newflower has one of the most extensive selection of zippy reading glasses that I’ve seen anywhere around town. And look for the big rack of Botanical Interests seed packets. There are rolling stands for those small baskets that other stores make people tote around themselves.

The produce department is the true star of this market, but the natural brands of poultry, beef, pork, and lamb appeared to be packaged in-house, and we’re certainly going to try some of these items. On Wednesdays, the weekly ad savings are doubled. We were out of the store before noon and by that time the parking lot was full and every checkout stand, although operating swiftly, had a line.