Oak Ridge Farm Stand

Those of you who live in the area may already be familiar with Harper’s Farm, which sells fresh vegetables and other items at their farm stand on Route 117 and also at various temporary locations in the region during their peak season. They have an extensive variety of outstanding produce as well as items such as flowers, pumpkins, and other seasonal items. In the midst of the recent spinach scare, Harper's was the ONLY place I was able to find spinach (and trust me, I searched far and wide). In addition to great quality and variety, the prices are unbeatable. It never ceases to amaze me when, for example, I walk out with several large tomatoes and a big bundle of fresh basil for only $1.75.

Needless to say, I was happy to learn that Oak Ridge Farm Stand, operated by the Harper family, is now open on Route 70 in North Lancaster (not far from the Toyota dealership). I stopped in for the first time this weekend and was incredibly impressed - they had so much more to offer than the delicious fresh vegetables that were the original purpose of my visit! Oak Ridge is actually more of a small grocery store than a farm stand. The focus is on locally-made products such as homemade soaps, fresh eggs, salsas, and pasta sauces. The vast majority of the store’s offerings are direct from Harper’s farms and orchards, including high quality hormone-free beef. The highlight of the visit for me, however, was learning that Oak Ridge also includes a deli and bakery. I resisted temptation and therefore have yet to try any of the variety of pies and cheesecakes, but I can attest firsthand that the old-fashioned homemade cinnamon sugar donuts were amazing! A loaf of tomato bread was also fabulous, as was a jar of homemade dill pickles. I’m eager to return to try some of the lunch-time meal offerings, such as chicken potpie, homemade soups, and fresh sandwiches. At my next visit, I’ll also be picking up some unique items, including high-end peanut butters made with ingredients like dark chocolate, white chocolate, banana, and raspberry. And I can’t wait until they open the dairy bar component of the business this spring!

Oak Ridge Farm Stand is currently open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. Their number is (978) 537-4777. You can learn more about the business in two articles available here and here (though I’m not certain for how much longer they’ll remain available online).