Nestled in the heart of serene farmland, Pennings Farm Cidery offers more than just a scenic escape; it presents a culinary journey that perfectly complements its artisanal ciders. The Pennings Farm Cidery menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes designed to enhance the tasting experience, pairing fresh, locally sourced ingredients with the crisp and nuanced flavors of their handcrafted ciders.
Whether you’re a cider aficionado or a casual visitor, the menu provides a delightful exploration of seasonal flavors and comforting classics, making every visit memorable.
From light bites to hearty fare, the menu reflects a dedication to quality and sustainability, echoing the farm’s commitment to preserving the environment and supporting local producers. The balance between rustic charm and culinary sophistication is evident in every dish, with thoughtfully prepared meals that invite guests to savor each bite alongside a perfectly matched cider.
This harmony between food and drink defines the Pennings Farm Cidery experience, creating a unique destination for food lovers and cider enthusiasts alike.
Whether visiting for a casual lunch, a relaxed afternoon tasting, or a special gathering, the Pennings Farm Cidery menu promises an inviting and satisfying encounter with farm-to-table dining. The following sections delve into the diverse offerings, highlighting the philosophy behind each category and the standout items that capture the essence of the farm’s culinary vision.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Pennings Farm Cidery is designed to awaken the palate and set the tone for the meal ahead. These small plates are crafted to complement the ciders, offering a variety of textures and flavors that range from light and refreshing to rich and savory.
Ideal for sharing or as a starter, these dishes emphasize fresh, local ingredients with a creative twist.
Many appetizers feature seasonal vegetables harvested directly from the farm or nearby growers, ensuring peak freshness and sustainability. The menu often changes to reflect the best produce available, providing guests with new taste experiences throughout the year.
Popular items include the house-made charcuterie board, which pairs perfectly with dry and semi-dry ciders. The board features a selection of artisanal meats, cheeses, and accompaniments like pickled vegetables and house-made preserves.
- Charcuterie Board: A curated mix of cured meats, local cheeses, and seasonal pickles.
- Farmstead Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with heirloom tomatoes, basil, and goat cheese.
- Spiced Nuts & Olives: A warm blend of roasted nuts with house-seasoned olives.
“Our appetizers are crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the farm’s bounty, creating perfect pairings that enhance both food and cider.” – Head Chef, Pennings Farm Cidery
Seasonal Soups
Soups at Pennings Farm Cidery reflect a commitment to seasonal and local ingredients, with recipes that change monthly to incorporate the freshest produce. These comforting options are perfect for cooler days and provide a gentle introduction to the meal.
Examples include a creamy butternut squash soup in autumn, a chilled cucumber and mint soup in summer, and hearty vegetable minestrone during winter. Each soup is made from scratch, using rich stocks and balanced seasoning to bring out the farm’s natural flavors.
- Autumn Butternut Squash: Creamy, slightly sweet, and paired with a crisp semi-dry cider.
- Summer Cucumber Mint: Refreshing and light, ideal with a sparkling cider.
- Winter Vegetable Minestrone: Robust and warming, best enjoyed with a dry cider.
Salads and Light Fare
For those seeking lighter options, the salads and light fare section offers vibrant dishes that emphasize crisp textures and fresh flavors. Each salad is a celebration of the farm’s seasonal produce, often featuring unique dressings and toppings that enhance the natural ingredients.
These dishes are perfect for a midday meal or a lighter accompaniment to a cider tasting. They balance nutrition and taste without overwhelming the palate, allowing the cider’s characteristics to shine through.
Salads frequently incorporate leafy greens, nuts, cheeses, and seasonal fruits, providing a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
- Harvest Salad: Mixed greens, roasted root vegetables, toasted walnuts, and apple cider vinaigrette.
- Goat Cheese and Beet: Roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, candied pecans, and arugula.
- Classic Caesar: Crisp romaine, house-made croutons, parmesan, and anchovy dressing.
Salad Dressings and Pairings
Dressings at Pennings Farm Cidery are crafted in-house, using ingredients like apple cider vinegar and fresh herbs from the farm’s garden. This attention to detail ensures each salad harmonizes beautifully with the menu’s cider selections.
| Salad | Recommended Cider Pairing | Flavor Notes |
| Harvest Salad | Semi-Dry Cider | Sweet, nutty, and tangy |
| Goat Cheese and Beet | Dry Cider | Earthy, creamy, and slightly tart |
| Classic Caesar | Semi-Sweet Cider | Salty, savory, and crisp |
Entrées and Main Courses
The main course offerings at Pennings Farm Cidery showcase a thoughtful balance of hearty and refined dishes. Each entrée is designed to enhance the cider tasting experience, utilizing farm-fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques with a contemporary flair.
Seasonality plays a crucial role in shaping the menu, with pork, poultry, and vegetarian options rotating depending on availability and inspiration. The chefs prioritize sustainable sourcing and preparation methods that preserve the integrity of each ingredient.
Entrées are often paired with ciders that either complement or contrast the dish’s flavors, creating an intricate dialogue between food and drink.
- Herb-Roasted Chicken: Served with root vegetable gratin and cider reduction sauce.
- Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder: Accompanied by braised cabbage and apple chutney.
- Wild Mushroom Risotto: Creamy Arborio rice with seasonal mushrooms and shaved parmesan.
“Each entrée is a story of the farm’s seasons, crafted to bring out the best in both food and cider.” – Executive Chef, Pennings Farm Cidery
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing diverse dietary preferences, the menu offers an array of vegetarian and vegan entrées that are every bit as satisfying as their meat counterparts. Dishes emphasize bold flavors and hearty textures to ensure a fulfilling meal.
Examples include a roasted vegetable tart with vegan cheese and a chickpea and kale stew infused with herbs from the farm’s garden. These options highlight the natural bounty of the region while maintaining the cidery’s commitment to quality and taste.
- Roasted Vegetable Tart: Seasonal vegetables with vegan ricotta and a flaky crust.
- Chickpea and Kale Stew: Slow-cooked with garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
- Grilled Polenta: Served with ratatouille and basil pesto.
Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
One of the signature features of the Pennings Farm Cidery menu is the selection of cheese and charcuterie boards. These thoughtfully assembled platters provide an ideal way to sample an array of flavors, perfectly matched to the house ciders.
The boards showcase local and regional cheeses, often sourced from nearby farms and creameries. Charcuterie selections include artisanal cured meats that highlight traditional methods and robust flavors.
Accompaniments such as seasonal fruit, nuts, honey, and house-made preserves enhance each board, creating a balanced and visually appealing spread.
- Classic Board: A balanced mix of soft and hard cheeses with cured meats and seasonal fruits.
- Vegetarian Board: A selection of cheeses, nuts, dried fruits, and artisan bread without meats.
- Deluxe Charcuterie: Premium cured meats, aged cheeses, pickled vegetables, and specialty mustards.
| Board | Key Components | Suggested Cider Pairing |
| Classic Board | Brie, aged cheddar, salami, seasonal fruit | Semi-Dry Cider |
| Vegetarian Board | Goat cheese, blue cheese, nuts, honey | Dry Cider |
| Deluxe Charcuterie | Prosciutto, chorizo, aged gouda, pickles | Semi-Sweet Cider |
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert offerings at Pennings Farm Cidery provide a perfect conclusion to the meal, featuring sweet treats that highlight the farm’s apple heritage and seasonal produce. These desserts are crafted to pair beautifully with the sweeter varieties of the house ciders.
From hearty pies to delicate tarts, the dessert menu offers a variety of textures and flavors that satisfy every sweet tooth. Emphasis is placed on classic recipes with a modern twist, often incorporating spices and ingredients grown on the farm.
Signature desserts include the cider-glazed apple tart and the spiced pear cake, both of which showcase the farm’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients.
- Cider-Glazed Apple Tart: Flaky pastry filled with cinnamon-spiced apples glazed with house cider.
- Spiced Pear Cake: Moist cake infused with warm spices and fresh pears.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse: Rich and creamy mousse topped with toasted hazelnuts.
“Our desserts are a celebration of the orchard’s bounty, crafted to create lasting memories paired with our finest ciders.” – Pastry Chef, Pennings Farm Cidery
Beverage Pairings and Specialty Ciders
Central to the Pennings Farm Cidery experience is the expertly crafted selection of ciders, each thoughtfully paired with menu items to enhance flavors and create memorable dining experiences. The beverage menu highlights the range of ciders produced on-site, from dry and sparkling to semi-sweet and barrel-aged varieties.
Each cider is described with tasting notes that guide guests in selecting the ideal accompaniment for their meal. The staff are well-trained in cider knowledge and often provide personalized recommendations based on individual preferences and menu choices.
Seasonal and limited-release ciders are regularly featured, offering enthusiasts the chance to taste unique blends and experimental batches that showcase the cidery’s innovation and dedication to quality.
| Cider | Flavor Profile | Best Food Pairing |
| Dry Cider | Light, crisp, with a hint of tartness | Goat Cheese and Beet Salad, Wild Mushroom Risotto |
| Semi-Dry Cider | Balanced sweetness with apple and floral notes | Charcuterie Board, Herb-Roasted Chicken |
| Semi-Sweet Cider | Fruity sweetness with subtle acidity | Classic Caesar Salad, Deluxe Charcuterie Board |
| Barrel-Aged Cider | Complex, oaky flavors with hints of vanilla | Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder, Spiced Pear Cake |
Non-Cider Options
While cider is the star of the beverage program, Pennings Farm Cidery also offers a selection of non-cider drinks to accommodate all guests. These include local craft beers, a curated wine list, and non-alcoholic options such as artisanal sodas and fresh-pressed juices.
- Local Craft Beers: Rotating taps featuring regional breweries.
- Curated Wine List: Focused on small producers and organic wines.
- Non-Alcoholic: Fresh-pressed apple juice, sparkling sodas, and herbal teas.
Family and Group Dining Options
Pennings Farm Cidery embraces community and hospitality, offering special menu options tailored for families and larger groups. These selections encourage sharing and create a convivial atmosphere that reflects the welcoming spirit of the farm.
Group platters and family-style meals are available upon request, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of dishes together while exploring the cidery’s offerings. These menus can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.
The cidery also hosts seasonal events and farm-to-table dinners that highlight the best of the menu paired with exclusive cider tastings, creating unforgettable shared experiences.
- Family Platter: Combination of appetizers, salads, and entrées designed for sharing.
- Group Tastings: Guided cider and food pairing flights for larger parties.
- Seasonal Dinners: Special menus featuring farm-fresh ingredients and limited-release ciders.
“Dining at Pennings Farm Cidery is not just about food; it’s about connection, community, and celebrating the farm’s bounty together.” – General Manager, Pennings Farm Cidery
Conclusion
The Pennings Farm Cidery menu is a testament to the harmonious relationship between food, drink, and place. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted to honor the farm’s seasonal rhythms and the rich tradition of cider making.
From the first bite of a crisp appetizer to the final taste of a spiced dessert, the menu invites guests to savor the authentic flavors of the region.
With a strong emphasis on local sourcing, sustainability, and culinary creativity, Pennings Farm Cidery offers a dining experience that is both comforting and refined. The diverse menu options cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, ensuring that every visitor finds something to delight their palate.
Whether you are gathering with friends, enjoying a romantic meal, or exploring the nuances of cider and food pairings, Pennings Farm Cidery stands as a premier destination for those seeking quality, flavor, and a genuine connection to the land.
Its menu is more than just a list of dishes—it’s a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and the simple joy of sharing a meal in a beautiful setting.
