Kansas Tourism: Agricultural destination dining is a rising trend that promotes the best of local flavors and ambiance.
With agriculture being one of the largest industries in Kansas, it only makes sense that Kansas producers know their way around fresh produce, grains and protein. Add in the beauty of a Kansas farmstead amid a breathtaking sunset, and you get one of the up-and-coming dining experiences in Kansas.
Farm-to-table dining destinations combine the serenity of the farm with dishes prepared from produce picked right from the vine, on location. Agricultural destination dining has been perfected by these Kansas chefs throughout the state.
Saltwell Farm Kitchen
Located on a historic Kansas homestead just 15 miles west of Lawrence, Saltwell Farm Kitchen of Overbrook, Kan., reimagines fine, rustic dining on reclaimed barnwood tables hidden throughout native walnut groves and among vibrant wildlife. Dining at Saltwell begins with the drive; the crisp lakeside scenery and a welcoming dry hard cider remind guests of their Midwestern roots. Move into the winter parlor by 7 p.m., popping the Spanish cava and enjoying a charcuterie spread on the grand piano. Curated music, laughter, intimate rustic tables and candles for days light up the small dining room. Each five-course dinner is intentionally prepared so that guests take their time, enjoying nothing but each other. There are no decisions to be made. For more information, visit saltwellfarmkitchen.com.
Oak Roots
Hotel Josephine in Holton, Kan, takes a farm-to-table approach to fine dining by presenting the purity of food in an artistic fashion with full gastronomic flavor and plating. Oak Roots chefs develop a menu seasonally, based on fresh and locally grown products available. The goal is not to buy in bulk from mass merchants, but to support Kansas and regional producers as a priority. The team uses microgreens, Midwest-raised fresh meats and unpasteurized cheese, even getting down to the basics of homemade butter made on-site. Many more specialties develop a sophisticated range of cuisine. For more information, visit hoteljosephine1890.com or facebook.com/oakrootsholtonks.
The Burning Barrel
The Burning Barrel of Lecompton, Kan., is a place to reconnect with the natural elements through the restaurant’s signature Origin Dinners. All main components of the multicourse meal are grown on Burning Barrel’s land and prepared by the staff’s hands. Every ingredient is cultivated with the highest respect, honoring its true nature. Livestock forage on open pasture and are processed by hand in the restaurant’s licensed and inspected facility. All plants are grown from seed in Burning Barrel’s gardens or wild-foraged from the open prairie. Food preparations focus on the complete cycle of life from seed to harvest, nourishing the lives on the farm. Through soulful preparations and attention to the ingredients, the Burning Barrel team strives to bring the highest-quality plate to the table. For more information, visit burningbarrelkansas.com.
Elderslie Farm
Elderslie Farm, Kechi, Kan., which began in 2010 as a blackberry farm, now includes a restaurant, cafe, goat creamery and sawmill. Dining at Elderslie Farm showcases the best and freshest local produce at the height of its season. Options include the prix fixe, multicourse dinner (served in the three dining rooms); or the Cheese and Such menu, which can be enjoyed as a first course for dinner or as a less formal dinner with wine on the patio. For more information, visit eldersliefarm.com.
Sharples-Terry is public relations and communications manager for Kansas Tourism. Kansas Tourism aims to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on the state and local communities. For more trip inspiration and to order a free Kansas Travel Guide, head to travelks.com
