How to Visit the Farm at South Mountain in Phoenix, AZ

Set amid a dozen sprawling acres south of Phoenix is The Farm at South Mountain, a combination gourmet restaurant/bistro/café, art gallery and health spa. The farm was once a pecan grove and the hundred or so trees provide verdant shade and a peaceful, rural setting for an al fresco breakfast or lunch as well as a beautiful backdrop for shopping at the on-site farmer's market or art gallery. The farm is an easy 30-minute drive from downtown Phoenix and makes an ideal day trip or elegant evening out at the flagship restaurant, Quiessance.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Visit The Farm Kitchen restaurant for a to-go breakfast or lunch, packed for you to enjoy al fresco at one of the picnic tables under the pecan trees. The Kitchen serves delicious home-baked muffins and bakery goods, salads and sandwiches. Or choose a table at the Morning Glory Café and be served from a selection of Southwestern-inspired breakfast entrees and light lunch options, beginning at 8:00 a.m. The Kitchen and Morning Glory Café are open Tuesday through Sunday, September through May, and is closed during the hot summer months.

2. Splurge for dinner at Quiessence, a gourmet restaurant that serves New American farm-style cuisine featuring organic and seasonal menu items. A 6-course tasting menu is available by reservation for $75 per person. There is an additional charge for wine pairings. Menu options include grilled meats, seafood and vegetables, a selection of cheeses, house breads and desserts.

3. Bring a cooler and shop at the farmer's market on Saturday mornings beginning at 9:00 a.m., where you can find locally grown fruits, herbs and vegetables to make your cooking memorable. Call [phone] for more information about the market.

4. Make an appointment with the onsite licensed naturoapath physician for nutritional counseling, herbal remedies or acupuncture treatment. Call [phone] for more information. Book a hot stone massage or a facial at the Retreat spa. Services are offered by appointment only. Call [phone] for details.

5. Attend a lecture, take an art class or develop your writing skills at a workshop at The Artist’s Studio, a gallery and educational venue onsite. See resources for Studio's website calendar for further details about events.

Tips & Warnings

• The Farm at South Mountain is located at 6106 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix AZ 85042. For more information, current events and directions, call [phone].
• The Farm is closed during June, July and August.

Resources

• The Farm at South Mountain website