As the local growing season comes into full swing, Swank Specialty Produce is once again set to captivate the hearts and palates of area food enthusiasts with its highly anticipated Swank Table series and Farmers Market.
This year promises a lineup of extraordinary chefs and a series of immersive culinary experiences that celebrate the bounty of Florida’s vibrant agricultural scene. It promises to be a season of unforgettable flavors and community camaraderie.
Considered a culinary extravaganza, the Swank Table series, comprising 10 enchanting al fresco dinners set on the farm, kicks off on Sunday, Nov. 12, with a festive Fall Harvest Hoe Down, followed by a Farm Market Asado on Sunday, Dec. 3, with eight more Swank Table events planned for January through April.
These events are a celebration of the finest ingredients sourced from Florida’s farmers, ranchers, artisanal producers, micro-brewers, distillers and winemakers. The culmination of these elements results in an extravagant multicourse dinner meticulously curated by top-tier chefs. Each Swank Table event also contributes to a local charity, adding a meaningful dimension to the dining experience.
The evening begins with a refreshing welcome cocktail, courtesy of UNA Vodka and Miami Club Rum, followed by an amuse-bouche to tantalize the taste buds. Attendees can then indulge in a selection of canapés featuring four distinct appetizers crafted by the featured chefs, perfectly paired with bubbles.
Guests are invited to explore the hydroponic grow houses, guided personally by co-owner Darrin Swank, or take a leisurely stroll through the fields, gaining insight into the workings of this bustling farm. The pinnacle of the evening arrives with a delectable five-course plated dinner beneath Swank’s rustic pole barn. Sommelier Jon Wine curates a selection of wines to harmonize with the dishes, while local craft brewers present an array of their specialty beers. Live music from South Florida’s favorite musicians sets the tone for a memorable evening, leaving guests feeling like cherished members of the Swank family.
A stellar chef lineup for this season, Swank Specialty Produce is delighted to welcome Jon Sarmiento as the lead chef liaison, bringing a wealth of experience both on and off the farm. His culinary journey includes stints at renowned establishments such as Cholo Soy and Palm Beach Meats. Joining him are an array of exciting new participating chefs, including South Florida’s own Carlos Garcia from Leku, Brian Nasajon of Beaker & Gray, Akino West from Rosie’s, Chef Moon of Sushi by Bou, Johnny Demartini from Ravish, Huy Hoang from Le Colonial, Warren’s Jen Knox and the esteemed Antonio Bachour. Additionally, the farm will play host to visiting culinary talents Fabian Di Paolo from Shearwater Tavern in California, Jonathan Merry from Riverhouse in Maine and the eagerly anticipated return of Buccan’s Clay Conley.
With this exciting lineup of talent, immersive farm experiences and a thriving Farmers Market, Swank Specialty Produce’s season promises a feast for the senses and a celebration of community spirit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to indulge in the finest flavors of Florida’s bounty. “Tickets for all events are on sale now, so mark your calendars and join us for a season of unforgettable moments on the farm,†co-owner Jodi Swank said.
The season opens with the Fall Harvest Hoe Down on Sunday, Nov. 12 at 4 p.m., benefiting Beachwood Integrative Equine Therapy, and the Farm Market Asado on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Bak Middle School of the Arts Foundation. Events continue in 2024 with: Running with the Bulls: A Night in Spain on Sunday, Jan. 21 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Dr. Gary Paul Swank Memorial Scholarship and the Foundation for Palm Beach State College; Club Carnival Mardi Gras on Sunday, Feb. 4 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Connections Education Center of the Palm Beaches (be sure to wear Mardi Gras colors of purple, green and gold and bring your favorite mask!); Bourbon, BBQ and Blues on Sunday, Feb. 18 at 4 p.m. benefiting the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association Scholarship Fund; Throwback to the ’70s on Sunday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Cancer Alliance (wear your favorite bell-bottom jeans, hippie dresses, ’70s wigs and dancing shoes); Street Food: Cultures of Asia on Sunday, March 10 at 5 p.m., benefiting the Hanley Foundation; She Feasts: A Swank Table Farm Party Celebrating Women Chefs on Sunday, March 24 at 5 p.m., benefiting Spring of Hope; the 13th Annual Vêtu de Blanc: The White Party on Sunday, April 7 at 5 p.m., benefiting the West Palm Beach Library Foundation (come dressed in white and bring candlesticks, candelabras, votives in glass and/or any other candle holder to make the evening sparkle!); and Cooking with Cannabis on Sunday, April 21 at 5 p.m., benefiting Path to College (Swank Farm is a Florida-licensed hemp grower, and the hemp tea is not to be missed).
Swank Farm is also known for its flourishing Farmer’s Market, a celebration of Florida’s rich agricultural tapestry amidst the picturesque Loxahatchee Groves countryside. Taking place every Saturday through May from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., this complimentary market offers an array of farm-fresh lettuces, vegetables, herbs and wildflower bouquets from Swank Farm. Guests can relish live music and explore a diverse range of exceptional goods from 25 local vendors. Shopping is a joy under Swank Farm’s expansive open-air pole barn, providing a delightful experience regardless of the weather. Ample free parking is readily available, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Whether visitors seek to stock up for the week, savor a breakfast sandwich, or simply enjoy coffee and a pastry, the market offers something for everyone.
Swank Specialty Produce is located at 14311 North Road in Loxahatchee Groves. Find details about all events online at www.swankspecialtyproduce.com.
