Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Where Fresh Food is Grown On-Site
The concept of farm-to-table has been popular for quite some time, but some couples are taking it to the next level by wanting to fully immerse themselves in the farm experience, especially on their wedding day.
For instance, at the Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod, couples can enjoy their special day surrounded by an eight-acre farm right on the premises. Each year, the inn hosts between 75 to 100 weddings, providing a unique and picturesque setting for couples looking to tie the knot.
In a similar fashion, Matthew Steinberg and Michelle Schwartz chose to have their wedding at Brooklyn Grange in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Their ceremony took place in front of 100 guests, overlooking the stunning Manhattan skyline from the rooftop farm. The couple even had their photos taken amidst the crop beds, creating a truly memorable experience.
During the cocktail hour, guests were able to witness peppers being picked right on the property, which were later used to make delicious pepper margaritas for everyone to enjoy. This farm-to-table approach not only adds a special touch to the dining experience but also creates a deeper connection between guests, nature, and the food they are consuming.
Brooklyn Grange, known for its rooftop farms in Sunset Park and Brooklyn Navy Yard, hosts around 45 weddings annually from April through November. Couples can choose between the two locations, with rates starting at $13,500 for up to 150 guests at Sunset Park and $6,000 for 50 guests or less at the Navy Yard. The farms provide a beautiful backdrop for weddings, with botanicals used in cocktails, wildflowers for decor, and fresh produce handpicked by staff and incorporated into catered meals.
Anastasia Cole Plakias, a founder of Brooklyn Grange, highlights the unique experience of witnessing the growth and consumption of produce simultaneously. She explains that seeing plants and flowers bloom on the farm and then being served on the table creates a full-circle connection between nature and the dining experience.
In addition to the culinary delights, wedding guests at Brooklyn Grange can also enjoy educational tours of the farm and take home gift baskets filled with freshly harvested produce. This interactive and immersive approach to farm-to-table dining is not only a trend but also a way to appreciate and celebrate the beauty of fresh, locally sourced food.
As the farm-to-table concept continues to evolve, couples are seeking more than just a delicious meal on their wedding day. They are looking for an experience that connects them to the land, the food, and the community in a meaningful way. With venues like Chatham Bars Inn and Brooklyn Grange leading the way, farm-to-table weddings are becoming a sought-after option for those who value sustainability, freshness, and a unique culinary experience.