Southwest
Mesa
ARIZONA
ROAD TRIPPIN’ ALONG
ARIZONA’S FRESH FOODIE TRAIL
Culinary education and countless tasty treats
are ahead on this 10-stop tour
Few think of the Sonoran Desert as being a
fertile land of riches. For visitors to Mesa, that
is just what this Arizona destination is all about.
Food, glorious food. Now, the destination is
calling all foodies to take the ultimate road trip
along their highways and byways to explore
the area’s countryside charms. The region has a
linked network of ‘agritourism’ attractions that
make up the Fresh Foodie Trail. Think peaches,
olives, citrus, wine and even ancient grains – all
ready to be tasted and toured. Many of these
culinary stops host food-driven events all winter
long, giving visitors even more reasons to stick
around.
Schnepf Farms
This fourth-generation family farm just happens
to be the largest peach grower in the Southwest.
In February, the fragrant Peach Blossom orchard
trail is a photo-worthy stop as rows of peach
trees welcome the desert warmth with hundreds
of bright fuchsia pink and white blossoms on
display.
Queen Creek Olive Mill
If Italy had a scent, it’s captured here at the mill
which promises a full-sensory experience directly
upon arrival. Guests would be wise to plan their
visit here around one of the day’s three meals.
Enjoy complimentary tastings of the oils while
waiting to take the Olive 101 Tour.
The Orange Patch
Just a few years ago, Mesa’s citrus industry was
called out by National Geographic as one of the
nation’s Top Food Drives. With citrus production
in full swing each January, it’s one of the most
aromatic times of year in Mesa.
Hayden Flour Mills
The newest addition to the trail can be found
(and tasted) at Sossaman Farms. Here, the focus
is on preserving grain history with the growing
and milling of heirloom wheat. The result is a
flour so in-demand it earned the American Made
Award by Martha Stewart.
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FoodTraveler l Winter 2016
True Garden Urban Farm
Get ready to go green at True Garden.
This new 5,000-square-foot vertical
urban garden offers a weekly farmers
market and educational courses
about the production of healthy and
nutritious produce using living soil.
Plan your foodie road trip now at
www.freshfoodietrail.com.