Farm to table refers to a variety of different local food sourcing tactics. What was once an up and coming trend is now a mainstay for many restaurateurs. Many restaurant owners have been slow to capitalize on this trend as it is viewed as being a much more expensive option. While that may be true in some cases, the benefits far outweigh the extra cost and a small adjustment to your pricing structure can fix any shortcomings. So what makes farm to table worth the cost and effort?

1. Freshness

Localharvest.org reports that on average produce is shipped 1500 miles. Regardless of how fast that truck is going, there is no way its freshness can compete with locally sourced ingredients. These long trips contribute greatly to spoilage and the chances of receiving damaged goods is quite high.

2. Taste

It goes without saying that fresh local produce tastes better than mass produced items that are shipped for days and even weeks. Additionally, many local farmers have implemented organic growing techniques, furthering the quality of their offerings.

3. Variety

Variety is an often-overlooked benefit of sourcing local ingredients. Many heirloom varieties are not made available in commercial markets due to low demand and short shelf lives. Utilizing farm to table ingredients allows you to experiment with new flavors and create unique dishes that will set you restaurant apart from your competition.

4. Nutrition

A recent article in the San Diego Union Tribune noted, “To keep food from going bad during travel, some fruits and veggies are picked before they are able to completely ripen and absorb nutrients. While this allows produce to ripen en route so consumers have access to fresh foods year-round, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says this mean foods often lack nutrients that would be there if allowed to ripen before being picked and shipped.” Many consumers are aware of this practice and particularly health conscious customers will seek out farm to table options when considering a restaurant destination.

5. Networking

Working with local farmers can give you an inside track on networking with business owners in your community and other possible suppliers. Many local farmers have a niche market and are more than willing to promote their neighbors that offer different products.

6. Marketing

Promoting the fact that you use locally sourced ingredients can have a profound effect on your bottom line. Even if it’s just a few specialty dishes, that farm to table label carries weight. Those with discerning tastes, specific dietary needs as well as the health and environmentally conscious will be drawn to these menu items.

7. Reputation

Using farm to table ingredients gives your restaurant the opportunity to be recognized as environmentally conscious, health conscious and a vital part of your local business community. Giving business to local growers helps to stimulate the economy and many businesses will reciprocate by frequenting your establishment or referring others to do so.

8. Flexibility

Sourcing locally allows you to be flexible with your menu as you can obtain goods more quickly and at the peak of their freshness. Creating solid relationships with local growers gives you the ability to create seasonal dishes and keep your menu fresh without the fear of running low on inventory.

9. Environment

Local farms have far less of an impact on the environment than larger commercial farms. The equipment used is often less sophisticated and gives off fewer harmful emissions. Additionally, many local farms concentrate on organic produce due to the demand and price points, giving them a way to compete with large distributors. The absence of pesticides and other chemicals makes most local farms much easier on the environment.

10. DIY

Taking farm to table a step further by developing an in-house garden can have many significant benefits. Not only will costs drop dramatically, restaurant gardens provide great atmosphere and can even improve property values. Consider starting small with an herb garden and see where it leads. Growing your own food gives you total control over growing techniques, quality and inventory.

With over 12 years in the business, Quikstone Capital Solutions has proven to be a trustworthy and knowledgeable lender specializing in small business funding. Over 60% of our clients are renewals looking to continuously grow their business. Whether you need cash for emergencies, cash to cover unexpected costs, or if you’re looking to make long overdue improvements, Quikstone Capital can help.