The journey of The Friendly Market began modestly, with a quaint stand by the roadside of U.S. Highway 70, marking the gateway to Morehead City. Here, Matt and Mindy Fitzpatrick embarked on a new venture, selling tomato pies and homemade baked delights. Matt, once a flourishing local builder, faced a turning tide in 2008 when the recession deeply affected his livelihood. In search of a new direction, the farm stand emerged as a beacon of hope during uncertain times.
Nestled under the canopy of towering pines, the land, a legacy within Mindy's family for generations, lay dormant until the couple saw its potential. With little to lose and much to gain, they seized the opportunity to breathe life into this familial ground.
From these humble beginnings, The Friendly Market has blossomed into a beloved landmark on Friendly Road, welcoming visitors with its iconic red barn and inviting porches as they enter Morehead City from the west. Today, it stands as a vibrant community hub, employing around 70 dedicated individuals during peak season. The market now boasts a bustling commercial kitchen, delighting customers with an impressive selection of prepared foods, alongside a distinguished wine collection, and an array of handpicked sauces, dips, and condiments from artisan vendors across North Carolina and the broader South.
This evolution from a simple stand to a flourishing market encapsulates the spirit of resilience, community, and the enduring bond of the Fitzpatrick family with the land and people of Morehead City.
At the heart of our market lies a simple yet profound mission: to deliver high quality foods packaged to go, to our local community. Powered by our exceptional team, we bring this vision to life every day.
From savory entrees and delightful dips to freshly baked goods, delicious salads and lunches, our diverse selection is curated to ensure there’s something special for everyone. We’re confident that once you experience The Friendly Market, you won’t be able to stay away.
Give our Market a call at (252) 222-0273
Our commitment to North Carolina’s rich soil extends beyond vibrant plants to include the freshest local produce, celebrating our dual dedication to supporting both plant farmers and agricultural growers. Our cooperative approach encompasses partnerships with nearby nurseries and farms, ensuring that everything from our lush plants to our crisp fruits and vegetables meets our strict criteria for quality and sustainability. We take pride in specializing in offerings that are exclusively grown in our cherished state, showcasing the best of North Carolina’s greenery and bounty.
Give our Nursery a call at (252) 515-4671
