Southport Magazine

Looking for fresh seafood, produce, or something to spruce up the house? Look no farther than The Marketplace on Howe/Fish Peddler at 310 North Howe Street. And if that’s not enough, some specially  procured NC regional items (liver mush anyone?) might strike your fancy. 

Chance and opportunity came together for Scott and Michelle Buff, marketplace owners, in October of 2018. “The space was available and we had the product,” Michelle Buff explained. “It was something that we thought Southport would enjoy and could use.”

The Buffs moved to the Southport/Oak Island area from Burke County 18 years ago, drawn by the welcoming and supportive community. Scott and Michelle started Buff Builders before expanding to owning commercial fishing boats, making opening a fish market a natural fit.  

“I believe it’s important, especially right now, for people to know where their fish comes from, and knowing that it comes directly off our boats is not only important to us, but to the people who buy our seafood,” Michelle said. “I feel that is what sets us apart from anybody else!”

So how do they get the freshest seafood? By keeping the fishermen happy, of course. Since they own local fishing boats, it is the Buffs’ job to make sure that the boats get unloaded and back to sea as quickly as possible, ensuring that the customers have a consistent seafood selection readily available.

The Buffs, along with Scott’s parents, Ron and Betty Buff, who also play a big part in the business, wanted to bring a little of their western North Carolina roots to Southport. In addition to the fish market, they decided to add fresh produce to their offerings.

Like they do with seafood, the Buffs make it their priority to provide the freshest produce possible. Many of their fruits and vegetables are grown in the Southport area and the rest come from Asheville and Vale, NC. But don’t think for a minute that the mountain produce is shipped in. The Marketplace family has a produce van that they drive to the mountains to personally pick up the tasty fruits and vegetables, ensuring that everything is fresh and crispy. With other family members still in the area, they often spend the night in the mountains and visit before heading out with fresh produce in the morning. It is truly a labor of love.

Besides shrimp, trigger fish, and snapper, what is one of the most popular items in the store? Believe it or not, Hunter’s Livermush! The Southern delicacy is made in Marion and not shipped out, so Michelle calls ahead to order and someone drives to pick it up. A lot of people only consider it a breakfast food, but thanks to Michelle, it has gained a sort of cult following in Southport, with locals and tourists, and is recommended for any time of day. “My Papaw always told me ‘if I told you what was in it, you would never eat it,’ so I stopped asking,” Michelle laughed. “Some things are better left unknown!”

If you’re not quite ready to give the livermush a try, there is still a lot to tempt almost any palate. Seafood delicacies include crab legs, crab cakes, and lobster tails. The Marketplace’s selections also include free-range eggs, sausage, chowders and soups, plus anything else that seems interesting to the shop’s buyers.The market is a true foodie’s dream.

In addition to seafood and produce, The Marketplace carries an eclectic mix of home decor products, many made by local artists. “I love to be able to work with local folks and share their talents with the public,” Michelle said.

 Besides running successful businesses, the Buffs enjoy helping the community by donating to several local charities, especially S.O.A.R. With the couple’s love for animals, the Southport-Oak Island Animal Rescue has a special place in their hearts. Michelle has been an active volunteer for years, and has hosted several adoption events and even an animal Christmas tree.  

Just as the Buffs have adopted Southport, the locals and tourists of Southport have embraced them, something especially evident during the recent pandemic and hurricane. “I have seen the community come out to support local businesses and it is just amazing,” Michelle recalls. “I feel really blessed.”

Looking to stop by? You can find The Marketplace on Howe/Fish Peddler at 310 North Howe Street in Southport. The market is open everyday except Sunday from 10 am until 6 pm.