Where can I find fresh lychee in San Francisco?

[Bay Gelldawg]

I would love to try lychee. I have read that it is grown in Southern CA and Hawaii. Is there anywhere in SF to get it fresh (not dried or canned)?

When is it in season?

[mariacarmen]

i've seen them at Evergreen market, on Mission between 21st and 22nd. But yeah, probably not til summer.

[CYL]

Sometimes sells in bulk, but more likely, as packed in 1-2 lb packages. Best varieties have meat that is sweet, large, and with small pit. Better to be able to sample bulk and test product beforehand to avoid being stuck with too much of less than the best.

[Robert Lauriston]

I always buy them loose.

[bbulkow]

Thread on a close relative, the Rambutan (aka Hairy Lychee)
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/42350

[Windy]

Yes, June-July. Sold at many Asian groceries, although I don't think I've had any grown in the US.

[Robert Lauriston]

It grows in Florida and Hawaii. If it can be imported, seems like we'd see it December-January in addition to June-July, which is the only time I've seen it fresh.

[wally]

I have usually seen it in mid-summer, I think.

[Melanie Wong]

Yes, summertime, and then they'll be all over our various Chinatowns.