Savoring the Farm to Table Experience in the Northwest

by Don & Susie Karstedt

If you've never experienced a farm-to-table event, you're missing out on one of life's most delicious and fulfilling adventures. We recently had the pleasure of attending such an event at Athol Orchards, and let me tell you, it was an experience to remember! Nestled in the picturesque Idaho mountains, Athol Orchards hosts this special event only twice a year. Run by passionate volunteers and the dedicated orchard owner and her veteran husband, this event is the epitome of fresh, local, and delightful dining.

The Magic of Athol Orchards

From the moment we arrived at Athol Orchards, we were greeted by a breathtaking view of the Idaho mountains, setting the perfect backdrop for our farm-to-table feast. The orchard is not just about apples, though they have an impressive variety. It’s also home to cows, chickens, and the charming Highland cattle, affectionately known as "hairy coos."

The diversity of produce and livestock at the orchard plays a significant role in the farm-to-table experience. We were thrilled to learn that everything on our plates came from either Athol Orchards or neighboring farms. This close-knit community effort means that when you dine at such an event, you're directly supporting local farmers and their families. https://www.atholorchards.com/

A Feast to Remember

The meal itself was nothing short of extraordinary. Picture this: tender pork and juicy chicken, both raised right there on the farm, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The honey, which added a touch of sweetness to several dishes, was from a neighborhood farm but they also produced their own honey on-site but had lost their hive over the winter so are starting from scratch.

Our meal included fresh salad greens grown just a few feet from our table, ensuring the crispest and most flavorful salads. And let's not forget dessert! We indulged in homemade strawberry/rhubarb  and peach pies that tasted like a slice of summer heaven.

Even the flowers adorning our table were from a nearby grower, adding a beautiful, fragrant touch to the already stunning setup. It was clear that every detail was meticulously planned to provide an authentic farm-to-table experience.

Beyond Athol Orchards: More Farm-to-Table Adventures

Athol Orchards isn’t the only place where you can enjoy such a unique dining experience. Here are a few other farm-to-table events a little closer to home that are perfect for special occasionsor if you want to support your local farmers:

  1. Roling Rocks Family Farm
    • Saturday July 27th 5:30pm-9:30pm
    • 11714 230th St E Graham, Wa
    •  
  2. Widnor Farms
    • July 13,20,27
    • 1858 W Badger Road Custer, Wa
    •  
  3. Grub Summer Farm Dinners
    • June 27th 5:30pm-7:00pm
    • 2016 N Elliot Ave NW Olympia
    •  
  4. Dragon's Head Cider
    • July 15th 5:00pm-8:00pm
    • 18201 107th Ave SW Vashon

The Joy of Supporting Local

One of the most fulfilling aspects of the farm-to-table experience is knowing that you’re contributing to the sustainability and prosperity of local businesses. By choosing to dine this way, you’re not only enjoying the freshest food possible, but also supporting the hardworking farmers who are dedicated to providing quality produce and meats.

Final Thoughts

Our experience at Athol Orchards was unforgettable. The combination of delicious food, stunning scenery, and the warm feeling of community made it a truly special event. It was wonderful to engage with other diners, sharing stories about life and what brought them to this beautiful area. If you ever get the chance to attend a farm-to-table event, especially at a place like this, don’t hesitate. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the beauty and bounty that local farms offer and the joy of strangers coming together to form a vibrant, connected community.

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