I tend to forget that Phoenix was once known for its orchards and groves. While much of that world no longer exists, driving down the 202 the other day I had suddenly realized the air was filled with the sweet scent of citrus blossoms. It was so lovely and very unexpected. . . and then, an exit later, it was gone.
Today I am in another small remnant of that time, lunching under the trees in a pecan grove.
Lunch at the Farm at South Mountain
We are at the (fabulous) restaurant at the Farm at South Mountain.
It feels as if we are miles from Phoenix, but this pretty organic farm and pecan grove is just a short hop from the heart of the city. We eat lunch by the patio, at a table under a shady tree (not a pecan tree), while the kids look for the few pecans within reach that were missed during the harvest.
It is a blissful way to spend an afternoon.
After lunch we ramble through the groves and organic vegetable gardens.
It is a bucolic-seeming place, the desert and mountains like a mirage beyond the raucous coughing of the city’s traffic.
Plan your visit to the Farm at South Mountain
The Farm at South Mountain is located halfway between Sky Harbor Airport and South Mountain Park south of downtown Phoenix.
The large facility offers a number of dining options, as well as event spaces. Large gardens on the property provide food for the restaurants and a weekend market.
There are three dining options at the Farm at South Mountain:
- The Morning Glory Cafe serves breakfast and lunch on an outdoor patio (no reservations accepted)
- The Farm Kitchen offers sandwiches and salads to be eaten at the picnic tables in the pecan groves
- Quiessence offers farm to table fine dining in an indoor/outdoor setting
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