Food for a Feast

by Sue Cloutier

Explore the bounty of locally produced food in North Central Massachusetts.

As we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our country’s independence this year, why not also celebrate independence from national food chains? One meaningful way is to create an entire meal using only locally sourced foods from farms right here in North Central Massachusetts.

Historically, families had kitchen gardens and backyard henhouses, and local farms provided anything else they needed. Today, while lifestyles have changed, the region still offers abundant opportunities to enjoy fresh, locally produced food straight from the farm.

Starters: Fruit, Cheese, and Bread

A simple and elegant start to any meal includes fruit, cheese, and a fresh loaf of bread. In season, you’ll find apples, strawberries, blueberries, and peaches at Lanni Orchards, a family-run farm at 294 Chase Road in Lunenburg. Lanni’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program offers weekly or bi-weekly farm shares—a bag of fresh, hand-selected produce to pick up at the farm.

For cheese lovers, Smith’s Country Cheese in Winchendon is a must-visit. Located at 20 Otter River Road, this family farm specializes in artisan Gouda, cheddar, and Havarti, made from the milk of their 200 Holstein cows. Producing ten pounds of Gouda takes 100 pounds of milk—just one reason their herd is so large. The farm emphasizes sustainable practices and humane animal care. Visitors can observe the cheese-making process and sample the results.

Greens and Veggies: Straight from the Earth

For fresh vegetables, head to Bolton Orchards, conveniently located at the intersection of Routes 117 and 110 in Bolton. Their wide variety of leafy greens and root vegetables make it easy to build a colorful, nutritious meal.  While you’re there, enjoy lunch at their farmstand deli. Sandwiches, salads, pastries, and specialty coffee make for a perfect mid-day break. You can also sample their small-batch ciders, which vary with each apple harvest. Their pressing method uses pressure instead of pasteurization, preserving the unique flavors of each variety. Be sure to take home a jug.

The Main Course: Farm-Fresh Meats

For the centerpiece of your meal, local farms provide exceptional meat. Valley View Farm in Templeton, just off Route 2, is a one-stop shop with a butcher, smokehouse, and retail store. They offer a wide variety of meats and cuts, including custom orders and catering options. The farm also processes game and meat from nearby farms.

Another excellent option is Adams Farm at 854 Bearsden Road in Athol. This family-run operation has partnered with area farmers for three generations, offering meat from pasture-raised animals free of hormones and antibiotics. They are known for humane practices, with facilities designed by Dr. Temple Grandin. With short notice, they can provide half or whole animals—perfect for pig roasts or special events.

Sweet Endings and Toasts

Finish your feast with a visit to Kimball Farm in Lancaster at 1543 Lunenburg Road (Route 70). Their roadside stand offers more than 50 flavors of homemade ice cream—choosing just one may be the hardest part of your day! They hand-pack quarts for take-home orders, but call ahead at (978) 534-9800 for large orders.

If you’re in the mood for a crisp cider, stop by The Cidery at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston. They serve both hard and non-alcoholic ciders Thursday through Sunday.

Sue Cloutier is an experienced nature center director specializing in biodiversity and environmental education. She is currently inventorying flora and fauna on her property in New Salem.