Farm ingredients don’t travel far to make it to your table at Bees Knees Café at Heather Ridge Farm in Preston Hollow. At this charming rustic café overlooking the Catskill Mountains, “a lot of the production on the farm is geared with the cafe in mind,” says Executive Chef Rob Handel. “Our dishes showcase what we, and other local farmers, produce.”
The seasonal brunch menu features breakfast options like the fresh-baked English muffin breakfast sandwich with a pastured egg, farm-cured and smoked ham, and Brovetto cheese. Also popular is Breakfast Skillet made with two free-range eggs cooked in ancho chili sauce with farm-made chorizo sausage, Brovetto cheese, and topped with a corn relish. The Oink and Moo Chili is sure to fill your belly with warmth on a cool day. It’s made with their grass-fed beef and chorizo sausage in a spicy bean and tomato base, served with Toma Celena grated cheese, sour cream, and a slice of cornbread. There are also vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Complement your meal with beverages like the “19-ingredient” root beer or spiced hibiscus iced tea. After your meal, shop for some of your favorite ingredients from your meal in the farm store, such as local cheeses and homemade pickles. Not sure how to cook the meats or produce you bought? Just ask Chef Handel for advice while he works in his open kitchen.
Brunch is served year round. From September – June, the café is open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. In July and August, the café is open Thursday – Sunday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Keep an eye out for special brunch buffets throughout the year, including the kickoff to maple season, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
989 Broome Center Rd., Preston Hollow; 518.239.6234; www.heather-ridge-farm.com
