The gorgeous Belmont Mansion overlooks the city of Philadelphia. By night the skyline is amazing, with the silhouette and lights of the city in contrast against the sky’s dark canvas. The lawn of the Belmont was beautifully decorated with splashes of fall, a reminder of the arrival of autumn and harvest time. This setting was perfect for the Heritage Farm Fare, Heritage Farm’s Fundraiser for Methodist Home for Children. Even better was the beautiful harvest moon that rose, almost as if it was scheduled just for us.
My husband and I were given tickets to this fabulous event and I was so excited to be a part of it. I talk more about it in this post on Heritage Farm but I love how they educate children on urban farming and get them involved in the growing process. When we arrived we checked in and were given a program for the evening. We ended up not being able to get there until it was half over so we missed out on some of what the evening offered like dessert. However, we were still able to enjoy much of the food and catch up with friends.
We didn’t take part in the silent auction but there were amazing items up for auction and I saw some nice dollar figures which can only mean SUCCESS for Heritage Farm Fare. We started out with these cool plates that have a spot for your wineglass to nestle and a place to put a small plate. We were told to start at the drinks so we went to see what they had to offer. Besides water they also had a hard cider drink and a local cream ale. My husband enjoyed a few sips of the cream ale and we both liked the hard cider drink made with Art in the Age SNAP. It was definitely the best Hard Cider I have ever had. Maybe it had something to do with the black strap molasses.
Restaurants
I am incredibly bummed that I missed the Di Bruno Bros. table. I have been known to drive 45 minutes into the city JUST to go to Di Brunos and drop $30 or $50 on cheese. Good thing it’s that distance because I would spend way too much there but their staff is extremely knowledgeable, patient, and friendly. I also missed the Yellow Springs Farm spread. I hear they also had some amazing cheeses, even one utilizing my friend Lauryn’s favorite lavender.
Fork brought only the best squash hummus I have ever had in my life. It wasn’t really hummus but consistency wise it is very much like hummus. Amazing-ness is what it was. The Squash hummus was topped with shredded beef and apples and pears. I could have eaten at that table all evening. The beef was provided by Philly Cowshare and it was great to have a chance to catch up with Jessica of Philly Cowshare. Mark this restaurant down for date night!
Wyebrook Farm used their own beef and it was good. I LOVED their Braised Beef Shank Dumpling with Kimchee and Spicy Soy Sauce. I wish I could make my own. I could have gone back over and over. They also had a flank steak over greens that was tender and flavorful.
Nectar served up Skuna Bay Salmon Rolls showcased in little bamboo boats. It looked like sushi but tasted much better. The salmon rolls were light and refreshingly delicious, the salmon flavor perfectly profiled.
Russet had a cute pint sized chef helping out this evening and I dare say he added a special touch that made the food taste even better. The flavors of their flat bread were savory and the memory makes my mouth water. Their apple spice mini cupcakes were so delicious. So sorry that you dropped yours honey. I was glad to sample their “something sweet” because by the time we go there High Point Cafe’s Dessert table was completely empty. My loss! I’ve seen it being raved about on local sites this week so I need to make a stop there when I am in Philly.
The first stop I made was at Derek’s. I heard the shredded pork was absolutely out of this world. Apparently it was. It was gone before I got there but the Old Mother Hubbard Salad ( a quinoa salad) was so yummy, especially in combination with the pickled peppers. I am pretty sure this Thanksgiving will see many dishes served in a pumpkin because what is better than a gorgeous centerpiece? A useful centerpiece with food in it. Thank you for that fabulous idea.
I was not able to sample anything at The Farm and the Fisherman due to nut allergies. However, it had to be good. My husband ate something with an olive tapenade and eggplant and said HE LIKED IT. He totally would never have tried it if I was able to so I consider that a score. He doesn’t like olives OR eggplant generally.
All I distinctly remember about Bar Ferdinand is house made ricotta and delicious food that went with house made ricotta. The food served was amazing but did I mention house made ricotta? I have wanted to try making my own ricotta and this just put me over the edge. House made ricotta just might be the best thing that could ever happen to Italian cuisine. I must make it now.
At the end of the evening I would say that Heritage Farm Fare was a smashing success. Celebrating and showcasing local restaurants and local foods, what better way to raise funds for Methodist Home for Children? A local non profit that helps the Philadelphia community? The location was spectacular and I cannot wait to go back to check out the Underground Railroad Museum. I am hoping there will be another Heritage Farm Fare next year.
I was given 2 tickets to Heritage Farm Fare in exchange for writing about the event. I was not told what to say and all opinions are my own. I can happily say I loved this event and hope to be part of it in the future.