Lunch Break-I’ll Take It As A Compliment

Sampling dishes and diners in and around Miami County 

After an early morning 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. shift, I was craving something filling and flavorful for my late lunch. So, I decided to pop over to Troy to wander around Haren’s market and take advantage of their lunch special and carryout menu.

I am a Bodega lover until I die. However, it was a particularly chilly and rainy day, and I wanted somewhere warm to sit inside. So, my friend and I skipped out on whatever the delicious and nearby Bodega option was and tried something new. Plus, I was in the mood to scan Haren’s fun beverages and charcuterie shoppables. 

The lunch special was a protein-packed Steak salad, with refreshing corn, black beans, and cucumber, and an intriguing ranchero dressing. My friend and I were excited that we picked a day when the special was healthy and packed full of greens. Naturally, I decided to cancel that out completely and to order the Rum drink that I saw on Facebook. If we’re 100% honest, I came specifically for what I learned is called the Pirate Cider, and the salad was just an added bonus. 

The Pirate Cider fulfilled all of my expectations. However, it was a little ironic when the waitress said I looked “like ten” instead of just asking for my ID, since I am a part-time bartender. I took no offense and sipped my cider with a smile after confirming that I am in fact 21…even if it is just barely. 

The cider was a crisp mixture of sweet and spicy, with an autumn apple finish and a cinnamon touch. When I paired it with my delicious salad, I forgot it was even an alcoholic beverage. The Steak Salad was every bit perfect. The steak was a tender medium rare, and the salad and all of its fixings were especially delightful when smothered in the spicy ranch. I would go back for the ranch alone. Although I’m not sure they sell it. 

I might not be sure about the ranch, but I’m definitely sure that Haren’s Market sells a wide variety of boujee baked, pickled, alcoholic, and even THC products. It's an experience just to shop around while you’re waiting for your meal.

Overall, my experience at Haren’s was short and tasty, leaving me with many things to look forward to returning for. The top of my list is the Bloody Mary, which is stacked with cheese, meat, and even pickled okra, a personal favorite of mine. This time, I’ll make sure to come ready, with both my appetite and ID in hand. 

Haren’s Market, 2E Main Street, Troy