These California destinations take the local harvest and get it on the table in delicious fashion for guests to enjoy in situ—perfect for those who prefer to eat rather than harvest or cook.
Outstanding in the Field, multiple locations
The original roving culinary adventure, this California-based company now serves its unforgettable meals at farms and orchards nationwide—even at special events like Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April. Past California locations have included a secret spot in Big Sur, a Catalina Island Sea Cove, and a variety of ranches and vineyards; new ones are announced every year.
Wine Tasting on the River Adventures/O.A.R.S., near Yosemite National Park
Take a whitewater raft trip down the Tuolumne River (spirited but fun Class IV rapids), followed by a gourmet meal featuring locally grown products and paired with Sierra Foothills wines.
Farm-to-Table Dinners at Malibu Wines & Beer Garden, West Hills, in the Santa Monica Mountains
The occasional farm-to-table dinner here pairs a locally sourced, multicourse menu—think roasted chicken with saffron couscous and a stone fruit bread pudding—with the winery's Saddlerock and Estate wines, served communally to guests 21 and older. Seating is limited and dates vary, so check Malibu Wines' events page for availability.
Full Belly Farm Dinners, Capay Valley
Seasonal dinners prepared with produce and livestock from local farms and fields are served at this family-run organic farm west of Sacramento, especially lovely in spring when the region’s almond orchards are in bloom. (February brings the Capay Valley Almond Festival).
American Grown Field to Vase Dinner Series, Carlsbad and Carpinteria
This roving company creates its own restaurant amongst colorful fields of flowers for its farm-to-table dinners, including locations in Carlsbad and Arroyo Grande. Each dinner includes a farm tour, flowers to take home, and plenty of interaction with the chef and flower farmers.
Dickinson Farm, San Diego County
Specializing in organically grown heirloom fruits, vegetables, and herbs, this small husband-and-wife-run farm and farm stand offers quarterly dinners, classes teaching such skills as pickling and herb smudge making, fresh-air yoga, and farm tours. At their larder, you can buy such house-made treats as pumpkin butter and green tomato jam, as well as insect-repelling herbal smudges.
