The farm-to-table movement has grown tremendously in the past decade— especially here in the Hudson Valley. This effort has driven the hyper-growth of the symbiotic relationship between Hudson Valley restaurants and the farms that supply them. It’s the community— bellies of resident and visiting diners and the local economy– who benefits.
The Grange in Warwick is one such farm-to-table dining establishment. They feature a seasonal menu that, in true dirt to dinner fashion, showcases local produce, meats, dairy— even locally sourced beer, wine, and cider. Much of their produce is from The Kitchen Garden, a cozy 2-acre, certified organic, black dirt region farm run by Chef/Owner Jim’s partner, Dominique.
Farm to Table Dining
Chef James “Jim” Haurey is passionate about his food. That dedication is noticeable in every delicious bite of a meal at this Orange County restaurant. His dream was to open a restaurant where he served what he grew himself— dirt to dinner, as described to me. In 2013, The Grange was born.
Freshly harvested produce from The Kitchen Garden inspires the menu, alongside produce, meat, and dairy from other local Hudson Valley farms, too. When the black dirt farms of Pine Island prosper, The Grange reaps the delicious and bountiful benefits!
The meal I enjoyed at The Grange was nothing short of impressive
Fresh rolls came first— accompanied by a flavor-infused dipping oil and a colorful, brightly flavored amuse-bouche.
Next was an impeccably smooth butternut squash soup sweetened ever-so-delicately with local Hudson Valley honey. Smoky pumpkin seeds and garlicky croutons topped the soup, adding layers of texture and flavor.
The entrees I enjoyed included the wild-caught escolar and the pork loin of the current menu. A veritable cornucopia of vegetables, straight from The Kitchen Garden, accompanied and so-well-complemented each of the entrees.
Though I had no room left for it after this feast, their lemon curd was so tempting— next time I’ll definitely be ending the meal with one of their lauded desserts.
Art, Music, and Events at The Grange
Visit on a Monday evening during Foodies and Moodies, and you’re in for a treat— a delectable meal featuring the freshest of local ingredients with a live piano performance to set the mood.
The Grange also serves as home to a rotating art exhibit. One wall of the restaurant showcases the work of a local artist. During my visit, gracing the walls were the autumn-themed landscapes of oil painter Janet Howard-Fatta.
A smashing success when introduced for the very first time, The Grange expects their Meet the Farmer night to become a regular event. The inaugural event featured a rousing Q&A with local grass-fed beef and pastured pork farmers, Lowland Farm.
Look out for Vino and Vinyl, a planned series that will feature a five-course wine, dinner, and music pairing. The staff will curate a playlist that’ll round out an already quite experiential dinner. The objective will be that diners have all their senses activated during this thoughtfully prepared food event.
Connect with The Grange
With just a handful of 2- and 4-tops and a single community table, reservations are an absolute must— call at least a week or two before you want to eat here.
Reach The Grange at 845-986-1170 for a reservation.
- Website: http://thegrangewarwick.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGrangeWarwick
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrangewarwick