Thirteen Dames and guests convened on Oct. 2 for a special trip to Rustic Road Farm in in Elburn, Ill., hosted by Dames Jean True and Norma Maloney. The event included a cooking lesson and seasonal lunch by Chef/Co-Owner/Farmer Marc Bernard.

Unlike any other farm in the area, Rustic Road Farm’s produce comes with cooking expertise and recipes. A classically-trained chef, Bernard kicked off the event with a discussion about he and his partner Luis’s passion for and dedication to growing and raising healthy food for everyone to enjoy by offering  CSA shares, selling at local farmers markets, offering cooking classes and hosting special events like this one.

Rustic Road Farm raises seasonal organic produce, free range chickens, goats and pigs.  The farm tour   was followed by a bountiful 4-course Fall lunch using many of these foods grown on the farm and a fun cooking class in Marc’s kitchen complete with recipes for the guests to try at home. One guest commented that, during the lunch, she felt as if she was sitting in a farm kitchen in Provence, France, a sentiment seconded by all.

A visit to Bernard’s farm store concluded the afternoon. There, we were able to purchase some of the items grown or made on the farm to take home and enjoy for more delicious meals. Stay tuned for another tour and lunch next Spring!