Everything about Tenfold Farmstand embodies the word bucolic, from the goats wandering throughout the picnic tables to the old schoolhouse stocked with local crafts, dry goods, and fresh produce picked at peak freshness. Then, of course, there’s Mary
Denham’s restored vintage wagon showcasing — like a still life painting on their mix-and-match cake stands, trays, and baskets — the week’s offerings from Eater Award-winning Blooms End at Neighboring Fields. Mary’s reputation for highlighting seasonal fruits and veggies in her baking precedes her. And while many of those stars still made the menu the week of my visit, we got a special glimpse into the flavors of the trip she’d just returned from all throughout the U.K. and Ireland.
What to order
- The heirloom tomato and cheddar croissant had sold out by the time we arrived, so I opted for the Marmite butter knot ($8.50) instead. This was one of the most delectable things I ate that weekend. So deeply savory, it was a bag of Twiglets — tangy, umami-rich, almost bitter — encased in layer upon layer of flaky, buttery dough.
- The signature blush pink hue of pink pearl apples, an heirloom variety with a sweet-tart zip, identified the Irish apple pie slice ($8) in the pastry case. Here, the pastry was shortbread-esque, almost like a scone. I wish we’d been able to buy an entire pie for the drive back.
- Inspired by the sticky toffee pudding at Rules, London’s oldest restaurant, Mary placed toffee-soaked date cake into a croissant shell and topped it with a dollop of creme fraiche and a mound of peaches ($9).
Insider tip
Blooms End at Neighboring Fields is only open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. There’s a reason that window is so brief — her pastries sell out quickly, so best to arrive early and be prepared to wait in line. Bring a few pals, and you can all take turns exploring the rest of the property while someone holds your spot.
