Two Leechburg-area businesses are partnering to present a rural farm fresh dining experience.
The Twisted Thistle in Leechburg and Lingrow Farm in Gilpin will host Farm 2 Table, an al fresco supper event on the grounds of Lingrow Farm on Saturday.
“The primary reason that Twisted Thistle ever opened was so that anyone could enjoy fresh food and we have always tried to source our ingredients from local farmers,” said event organizer Joe Hesketh, managing partner at both properties.
Linda Alworth, owner of Twisted Thistle and Lingrow Farm, said the ongoing coronavirus pandemic was a motivating factor for planning the dinner.
“This year especially it seemed extremely important for us to work with local farmers who have been impacted by this pandemic to promote shopping local. We also know people are tired of being cooped up,” Alworth said.
The event is open to people ages 21 and up and tickets are available for up to 55 guests.
Alworth stressed the evening will not be a “stuffy, pinkies-out event” but rather a celebration of great local food and community unity.
“Come as you are — khakis or coveralls,” Alworth said. “Everyone is welcome. We expect lots of laughs, great music and inspiring dishes.”
Each ticket ($98 plus a $5.90 fee) includes a six-course dinner, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages and three tickets for alcoholic beverages.
The six-course supper will tempt diners with fresh meats, vegetables and herbs from local sources such as Myers Pickle Farm in Gilpin, Serenity Hill Farm in Indiana Township, Ambrose Farm Market in Winfield, Lake Erie Walleye and Elysian Fields in the Waynesburg area.
Menu selections will include a grilled watermelon salad, garlic french cut lamb chops, grilled walleye over wild mushroom ravioli, pork tenderloin with a honey bourbon glaze and a fresh peach brulee for dessert.
Lingrow’s covered back deck, overlooking the expansive grounds, a large pond, barn, fields and gazebo, will offer guests protection from the elements and allow for a socially-distant outdoor event following covid-19 guidelines.
Live entertainment will be provided by Jay Zonotti.
Attendees are asked to wear their masks at all times, except while seated at their respective seats during dinner.
“Our chefs and staff will be following all of the covid-19 guidelines and due to PLCB guidelines, there will be a limit of three drinks per person,” Hesketh said. “Normally a farm-to-table dinner has wine or beer paired with each course. Unfortunately, with the restrictions, we aren’t able to do that.”
