A Story of American Entrepreneurship

Abedalelah Almaala founded a fresh produce stand in D.C. Farmers Market, what is now Union Market, in 1996. We developed a reputation for providing the best produce to our customers and their families. Listening to our customers for seasonal and specialty items, such as muscadine grapes, local peaches, and other local produce, and ensuring the highest quality for the best price. Eventually, the small stand expanded to two corners of the market to become one of the largest fresh produce stands in the market.

Video credits: Bob Kovacs

Planting seeds.

In the early 2000s, Abed and his wife, Alwati Almaala, would establish two farms in Maryland. One farm in Cumberland, and the other, on the Eastern Shore. They would grow fresh and organic collard greens, kale, squash, zucchini, and other fresh fruits and vegetables and transport them to local markets in Washington, D.C. The rest was history.

Almaala Farms was born.

Almaala Farms would expand to other offerings, such as fresh and 100% organic eggs, oyster mushrooms, and corn. We pride ourselves on the constant experimentation of new ideas and new ways to better serve our new and longtime customers. In this journey, we have provided the best produce at the best price possible.

A New Chapter

DC Farmers Market was closed following a large fire that heavily damaged dozens of stands in 2012. Following a change in management and economic investment in the surrounding area, Almaala Farms found its new home in Union Market.

Maintaining our commitment to providing the best to our customers, we expanded our serving of organic and locally grown foods from our farms and surrounding farms. This included local apples, peaches, plums, tomatoes, and more during their prime seasons. We also began offering locally made Amish cheese, Middle Eastern spices, and other specialty items.

We have welcomed and served customers from across the world, including U.S. senators, DC mayors, journalists, and global travelers. We welcome everyone!

In 2023, Almaala Farms in Union Market began baking fresh and authentic Middle Eastern sweets and pastries like homemade baklava, kanafa, and sweet cheese. Additionally, we began selling authentic dishes from the region, such as Manakish Za'atar, meat and vegetarian pies, and homemade kibbeh. We have taken our commitment to bringing the best fruits and vegetables and instilled this in our food offerings.

The story of Almaala Farms is one of freedom and entrepreneurship. After serving the DC community for nearly 30 years, we pride ourselves on having lifetime customers and friends. We will always aim for excellence.

Meet the Family

  • Abed Almaala

    FOUNDER, FARMER & MAIN-OPERATOR

  • Alwati Almaala

    FARMER, BAKER & CO-OPERATOR

  • Hassan and Angela Almaala

    HUSBAND/WIFE DUO & OPERATIONAL SUPPORT

  • Tameem Almalla

    CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER