Mesa in Arizona is not a place someone might expect to find some of the finest fresh produce and food. So, what makes Mesa great for foodies?
The area has long been associated with farming, and as a result, it has some of the best fresh produce. Boosting the agri-tourism scene, farms and eateries in Mesa have teamed up to create a foodie trail that epitomizes the very best in farm-to-table dishes and ingredients.
Below, Tamme McCauley of Pacific Palisades provides a full rundown of Mesa’s Fresh Foodie Trail.
Why is Mesa a Foodie Paradise
The word “mesa” itself actually means “table” in Spanish. Although this originally was associated with the fact that the city sits on very flat land that is surrounded by hills and valleys, it now fits perfectly with the food culture here.
Primarily, a lot of Mesa’s foodie trail centers around Agritopia. Agritopia started out as a homestead in 1927, which turned into a thriving community thanks to the work of the Johnston family in the 1990s.
Homes sprung up around the 11 acres of farmland, but with them came restaurants and fresh produce stores all dedicated to the very best and freshest organic food, most of which is harvested and eaten on the same day!
The Coffee Shop
The Coffee Shop serves as one of the main social hubs in Agritopia, but it is known for its good coffee and food just as much as its company.
This is a great daytime stop for any foodie, with generously filled sandwiches and a stellar breakfast menu every single day. Those with a sweet tooth should also try their cupcakes, baked in-house and reportedly the best in the entire state!
Joe’s Farm Grill
Joe’s Farm Grill used to be the family home of the Johnston family, but it has been converted into a mid-century diner. Unlike similar establishments, Joe’s Farm Grill makes everything fresh, with meat that has been sourced locally, and veggies right from the nearby farm with no processed food to be seen!
Enjoy a burger made with freshly ground chuck steak, or a salad using fresh farm ingredients and a selection of homemade dressings. Try a freshly squeezed lemonade which a choice of flavors, and finish things off with their lovingly baked New York-style cheesecakes.
Steadfast Farm
For farm-fresh produce and ingredients, the perfect stop is the Steadfast Farm store. They stock a selection of seasonal and organic fruits, vegetables and flowers all grown on the farm, as well as eggs from their free-ranging chickens.
Shoppers can also pick up a bite to eat and drink on the go, with uniquely flavored lattes including lavender vanilla and spiced honey, and fresh breakfast tacos that come in 5 varieties. Those looking to sample their tacos need to act fast though: these sell out each and every day!
Queen Creek Olive Mill
Situated at the bottom of the San Tan Mountain range is a slice of the Mediterranean and the only olive grove in Arizona. Queen Creek Olive Mill grow and process their own olives to make oil, and to infuse into various foods and cosmetics. There is also a Tuscan-inspired restaurant on site for a taste of Italy.
Belly Kitchen and Bar
Belly Kitchen and Bar mixes together Asian flavors with the sharing philosophy of Spanish tapas. Guests can sample dishes based upon Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine, including their braised jackfruit, fresh crab bao buns, and pork belly and egg claypot.
Wash everything down with one of their organic wines, or their punchy cocktails.
Take a trip to Mesa and enjoy what this produce-rich scene has to offer.
