Do you consider yourself a foodie?  For the most discerning critics of fresh and local fruits, herbs and veggies, we offer our top recommendations for local farms that will not disappoint. 

Here are our favorite farms that offer scrumptious, unique and sustainably grown produce that will make your taste buds sing.  You can drop by their farm stand and pick-up beautiful, nutrient packed produce as you do your errands around town.  Other farms ask that you become a member of their farm and in exchange you receive a basket of produce each week.  This is called Community Supported Agriculture or a CSA.  It’s a wonderful way to support small farms in our community.  Enjoy!

Drop the Beet Farms, at Calgo Gardens 462 Adelphia-Farmingdale Road in Howell:  Cody Parker is the operator of this amazingly innovative aquaponics farm.  Aquaponics is a sustainable farming practice where the waste from fish supplies the nutrients for hydroponic growth of herbs, vegetables and other plants within a green house.  Cody also partners with the MCF to educate students about sustainable farming practices through our Kids for Conservation Program.  To learn more, contact Cody Parker at dropthebeetfarms@gmail.com.

McCormick Farms, 119 Tindall Road in Middletown:  This family-owned and operated farm has been a local favorite for generations.  You won’t find a better curated selection of seasonal produce with an array of different varieties of tomatoes, lettuces, peppers and many other unique items.  One of the many reasons this farm is a favorite is because the McCormick’s chose to preserve their farm ensuring that it will always remain a part of the community and reminder of the areas’ agrarian past.  For farm stand hours, check their Facebook page or call (732) 671-0162.

Beyond Organic Growers, 89 Howell Road in Freehold: Set on the beautiful backdrop of a preserved farm (yes, this family also chose to protect their family farm forever!) that has been operated by the Reid Family for 100 years, is a unique aeroponic greenhouse growing produce and herbs that have become all the rage of local chefs.  The greenhouse is open for sales daily and also offers yoga events, farm-to-table dinners and an on-site juice bar.  For open hours and events, visit their Facebook page or call (732) 303-1515.

Martenette Farms, Ocean Grove CSA Pick-up location:  Husband and wife team, Tony and Andrea, have made their farm dream a reality through their organic farm that offers a wide variety of seasonal produce, grains and meat.  The perfect option for busy foodies, this farm is located in Hillsborough, New Jersey, but offers a convenient weekly pick-up location at The Starving Artist in Ocean Grove every Friday.  They also offer weekly delivery.  For more information visit their website or contact them at 908-625-4886 or MartenetteFarms@gmail.com.

The County of Monmouth’s Grown in Monmouth program also offers an excellent directory featuring many local farm stands, CSA shares, and a pick-your-own directory.  Follow this link to the Grown in Monmouth website.