Find an authentic farm-to-table experience in the middle of one of San Luis Obispo's newest housing developments off Madonna Road.
Opening in late 2023, SLO Ranch Farms and Marketplace will bring more than 15 vendors together, selling artisan cheeses, baked goods, gourmet coffee, sushi, handmade and vintage goods, a craft brewery, farmers' market, and more to local residents and visitors just five minutes from downtown SLO.
One of the first vendors to announce it was moving in to SLO Ranch Farms off of Froom Ranch Way, Vintage Cheese Company, specializes in open-vat, hand- crafted cheeses made with the help of century-old recipes. Its range of cheeses include cow, sheep, and goat milks aged to perfection.
"Our SLO Ranch creamery will allow everyone access to viewing the cheeses that are made on a daily basis," said Ryan Davis, president of the cheese company. "We want our creamery to be a fun place where residents can come and build a charcuterie board or gift baskets with local cheeses, nuts, and candies, or just pick up some fresh warm cheese curds out of the vat."
The creamery is joined by Lucy's Coffee Co. with specialty drinks, homemade syrups, and bagels; The Hangout-which will sell curated vintage and handmade artist goods; in addition to a local brewery, pet store, ice cream, a French bakery, sushi bar, and other yet-to-be announced food, drink, and retail spots.
With nearly 40 acres of prime organic agricultural farmland adjacent to SLO Ranch Farms and Marketplace, produce from the organic farm will be available for purchase from the neighborhood market on site. Merchants will be able to grow their own crops to use at their location. Community garden plots will be available for rent for San Luis Ranch and other residents. Nearly 3 acres of the farms will be dedicated to interactive family-friendly crops such as pumpkin patches, hayrides, a corn maze, and berry picking, along with a dedicated petting zoo with local livestock.
Jacob Grossman, who is overseeing the entire project, said Coastal Community Builders is beyond excited to bring the family-owned center to life.
"We feel it will be the heartbeat of south San Luis Obispo and a wonderful amenity for the community that will offer an amazing variety of eating, shopping, and entertainment in a family-friendly environment." Grossman said. "No where else in this area will you see this type of center connected by 40 acres of organic farming. There will be a little something for everyone. With an array of indoor and outdoor seating, fire pits, beautiful views, and a small stage, it will be a great gathering place for the whole family."
SLO Ranch Farms and Marketplace was part of the San Luis Ranch community vision from the beginning, giving the development's almost 600 homes a central gathering place to meet, shop, relax, enjoy some music and a fresh drink, and partake in the Central Coast's agricultural heritage. If you're looking for a spot to sell your wares, Coastal Community Builders is still looking for a handful of select vendors. Interested? Reach out to Jason Hart with Hart Commercial Real Estate at (805) 481-9010 or jason@hartcre.com.*
https://www.newtimesslo.com/special-issues/menus-spring-summer-2023-13731975