A Farm-to-Table Feast

A Celebration of Local Ingredients

The evening began with a stunning starter that captured the essence of spring: vibrant Gaining Ground Farm greens and field peas, dressed in a sophisticated smoked cider vinaigrette. The dish was elevated by embered onions and delicate pickled fennel, crowned with artisanal soft cheese crafted from Mother Holler Farm’s milk. The addition of roasted Utopian Seed Project seeds added both texture and a connection to the organization’s vital work.

Farm + Sparrow’s rye flour Parker House rolls demonstrated the artistry of local grain cultivation, served with a thoughtfully prepared salted caraway butter that paid homage to traditional preservation techniques.

Main Course Magnificence

The culinary journey continued with a fire-roasted farm vegetable platter, adorned with a creamy lemon and spring herb sauce that captured the brightness of the season. Sweet potatoes, a regional staple, were transformed through skillet-searing and enhanced with a creative mustard sorghum glaze. The addition of dahlia root relish and buttermilk crème fraiche showcased preservation techniques while fresh chives added a final touch of spring.

Good Wheel Farm’s chicken, wood-grilled to perfection, celebrated sustainable local meat production. The spring allium chimichurri and smoked poultry jus elevated this humble protein to new heights.

A Sweet Finale

The evening concluded with an innovative dessert that honored regional ingredients: a sweet potato cheesecake that perfectly balanced rustic and refined elements. Bourbon marshmallow fluff, cherry caramel, and candied pecans and walnuts created a dessert that spoke to both tradition and innovation.