Planning an end-of-season barbecue to close out summer? Pick up some fresh meat from these Hudson Valley farms to throw on the grill.
It’s almost Labor Day, which means the endless summer barbecues are finally drawing to a close. If you’re heading to any late-season backyard bashes or poolside parties to celebrate the holiday weekend, or if you’re hosting, you’ll want to make sure you have the best eats in the Valley to end the summer on a high note. Source all the fresh meat you could dream of at these regional farms to support local farmers and serve high-quality meals for bonus points with the neighborhood.
Bettinger Bluff Farm
Montgomery
For all-natural, 100-percent grass-fed beef, head to Bettinger Bluff Farm in Orange County. The destination is your source for healthy and lean beef that’s USDA inspected and approved. At the farm, find anything from a whole or half cow to cuts like skirt steak, filet mignon, and New York strip. Don’t forget to add some natural or teriyaki beef sticks to your cart to take home for Fido.
Black Sheep Hill Farm
Pine Plains
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Venture to “where the grass is green, the sheep are black, the pigs are fat, and the farming is fun” at Black Sheep Hill Farm. The family-run Dutchess County spot breeds Black Welsh mountain sheep, along with heritage breed pigs and chickens for farm-fresh eggs. Stop by the year-round farm store for pasture-raised pork, all of which is fed organic milk products from nearby Ronnybrook Farm.
Bonticou Ducks
Stone Ridge
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Bonticou Ducks is a small family farm in Ulster County that specializes in poultry. Whether you’re visiting to take home a pet duck or you’re craving some chicken, goose, or turkey, Bonticou is your one-stop shop. The farm raises exceptionally rare heritage breed birds that are just as tasty at your summer barbecues as they are at Thanksgiving dinner.
Eight Mile Creek Farm
Westerlo
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A certified organic farm in Albany County, Eight Mile Creek Farm is the Capital Region’s destination for chicken, beef, or eggs. The farm store at the Westerlo spot sells steaks, house-made sausages, whole chickens, ground beef, and vegetables so you have all your fixings for a weekend barbecue. If you can’t make the trip up north, order from the farm’s website for fresh meat to be delivered right to your door.
Herondale Farm
Ancramdale
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At Herondale Farm, sustainable farming is the name of the game. The Columbia County gem manages land resources in partnership with grazing animals to increase land productivity. The result is 100-percent grass-fed beef and lamb and pasture-raised chicken and pork. Additionally, the founder of Hudson Valley-based charcuterie brand Jacuterie comes from Herondale Farm, using the farm’s resources in all his creations.
Pierson’s Farm
Middletown
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Renowned for its sunflower fields in late summer, Pierson’s Farm is a must-visit come August. While you’re checking out the acres of bright yellow fields, stop by the farm store to pick up farm-fresh meat and eggs. The farm raises grass-fed beef and pastured chickens and pork so you can have your pick of the crop. P.S. This farm offers a host of kid-friendly activities just in time for fall fun, so feel free to bring the little ones along as well.
Related: 7 Best of Hudson Valley Restaurants to Try in Orange County
