While the farm-to-table trend seems to have appeared out of nowhere, here in West Virginia, locally sourced food has always been the order of the day.
Farms
Maybe it is the state’s agricultural heritage and the pride in the land, farmed and passed down by parents and grandparents, that has kept the farm-to-table mindset alive in West Virginia. Farmers take care to graze their herds using sustainable practices that benefit both the animals and the land, which means high-quality meat and a preserved pasture. There is rarely a middleman between the farm and local restaurants, and lots of restaurateurs adjust their menus to reflect seasonal trends and produce availability.
Many of these farms have been in families for years, like the Swift Level Farm (5 generations!), where you can get grass-fed beef, and children can help feed the pigs and collect eggs.
Gritt’s Farm has monthly family-style farm-to-table dinners, collaborating with regional chefs. Before and after the meals, you can explore the surrounding fields and even buy the same fresh produce used in your meal.
Voted one of the Best B&Bs in West Virginia, Cider Mill House gives guests a chance to step back into pastoral 18th century farm life. Watch the farmhands shear goats and cut hay while you explore the pastures and woodland areas. After a peaceful night’s sleep, enjoy a scrumptious breakfast all sourced from the garden and farm animals.
Restaurants
As the agritourism industry grows and diversifies, restaurants are able to create more dishes that celebrate the tastes and flavors of the Mountain State:
- Some restaurants have started their own Chef’s Gardens, like the ones at The Greenbrier and Fish Hawk Acres.
- Couple your locally sourced meal with some locally sourced tunes! The Dish Cafe hosts weekly live music nights.
- Bring your friends (or make some new ones) at the Farmer’s Table dinners every Saturday at Panorama at the Peak. Enjoy an intimate 5-course meal, family style, and learn about a local farm and seasonal fare.
- For more fresh-from-the-farm goodness, check out Stardust Cafe, the Livery Tavern and Bistro 112.
Farmers’ Markets
West Virginia has the highest percentage of family-owned farms in the nation, so our farmers’ markets have some of the freshest, most expansive selections.
In addition to the produce, you can find handmade crafts, baked goods, jams and jellies, farm eggs, cheese and more! At the Morgantown Farmers’ Market, which was recently named one of the “Best Farmers Markets in the South” by Southern Living, you can find treats like organic eggs, local honey, brick-oven breads and more!
Have you enjoyed a locally sourced meal here in the Mountain State? What is your favorite farm-to-table restaurant?