If you have ever been to a restaurant that prides itself as locally sourced, you can probably taste the difference from competitors who can’t claim such a title. The main distinguisher that separates these business owners from the rest, is that they can take more accountability for the quality of the product before plating it to perfection and providing their customers with a satisfying spread.

Pros

Maintains quality

The benefit in locally-sourced foods are that the farmers are able to produce their food and hold its value because they don’t have to worry about spoilage over a long distance.

And, if you think about it­—in a world where you can guarantee a McDonald’s around every corner, where the food tastes the same from California to New Jersey, you start to question where exactly your food is coming from. When it comes to farm-to-table, there is some comfort knowing where what you are consuming came from.

Sustainability

While the short journey from the farmer to the buyer aids in quality, it also lends a helping hand to the environment along the way. Because of the short transport, this means less greenhouse gases being emitted into the air.

Community

Farm-to-table connects a community by allowing consumers, local businesses, and farmers to all connect with each other. A sense of community is the kind of relationship that keeps local economies going and growing.

Cons

Seasonal dependency

Some people love doing seasonal menus because it makes a dish special, and will have costumers humbly waiting for the season to begin again. On the other hand, who doesn’t love Sunday regulars? If the demands of loyal customers can’t be met, the business may find itself struggling.

Regional Constraints

If you can’t grow certain foods in your area and still want to maintain that locally-sourced status, it may limit what your menu will look like.

Farm to table is a growing business that has its own set of strengths and weaknesses, but shows a lot of promise in its sustainability efforts, community, and most importantly, aim for fresh tasting food! If you haven’t tried out a farm to table restaurant, give it a shot, and decide if it’s a movement you can get on board with!