Hunterdon County celebrates culinary excellence at ‘A Taste of Hunterdon’ in support of James Beard Foundation
HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — Hunterdon County’s farm-to-table community took center stage Sept. 16 at The Silo at The Farmhouse, where residents and visitors gathered for Friends of James Beard: A Taste of Hunterdon, a premier tasting event celebrating the county’s culinary and agricultural heritage.
Presented by Explore Hunterdon, the walk-around tasting event featured 10 of the region’s top chefs serving inventive small plates that highlighted the seasonal bounty of Hunterdon County. Guests also enjoyed local wine, beer, cider and live music in a lively atmosphere supporting the James Beard Foundation.
“Tonight is a true celebration of what we do best in Hunterdon County — supporting local farms, showcasing culinary talent, and coming together as a community,” said Deputy Director Shaun C. Van Doren, who attended alongside Commissioner Susan J. Soloway. “This event focuses on our food and farming scene, and it is an honor to support the James Beard Foundation in their mission.”
Soloway emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting the local food economy. “From fresh produce to world-class cuisine, Hunterdon County is a place where food and community go together,” she said. “Events like this not only highlight our culinary talent but help strengthen the local businesses that make our county thrive.”
A highlight of the evening was a presentation by Charles Rosen, founder and owner of Ironbound Farm and Ciderhouse, who shared insights into the farm’s regenerative initiatives. Ironbound Farm, a 108-acre regenerative farm in the New Jersey Highlands, grows vegetables and heritage apples using sustainable, chemical-free practices that prioritize biodiversity and soil health.
Tastings were also provided by Canal House Station, D’Serve, FiNNBAR, Metropolitan Seafood, Northridge at Woolverton Inn, Ryland Inn, Sergeantsville Inn, Stockton Inn and Sweet Melissa’s Patisserie.
Tickets, ranging from $125 for general admission to $150 for VIP access, included access to chef stations, beverages from local wineries, breweries and cideries, and opportunities to meet the chefs and farmers behind the dishes. The 21-and-over event drew hundreds of food enthusiasts and has become one of the county’s most anticipated culinary celebrations.
For more information on upcoming events and culinary experiences in Hunterdon County, visit ExploreHunterdonNJ.com.
