With Thanksgiving just hours away, Long Islanders are scrambling to cross those last-minute items off their shopping lists. By now, most already know where they are headed on Thursday, and what items they have been instructed to bring. Those that are hosting probably already have their turkeys, turduckens and their tofurkies all ready to pop-in the oven; but what about sides, desserts or even festive flowers to create the perfect holiday ambiance? While there is still time, here are a couple of farm stands that will be sure to accommodate any last minute requests.
Briermere Farms- Riverhead
Famous for their jams and pies, Briermere is a Thanksgiving necessity for most. From the moment you step onto their property you can smell the sweet aroma of baked bliss. Pick up a jar of their sweet and savory apple butter, or their winter blackberry preserves to slather all over your oven-fresh rolls. Already have your pies and jams squared away for the day? Opt for some farm-grown brussels sprouts or local yams, worthy of accompanying any magnificent main-dish. Just keep in mind that this is the busiest time of the year for this tiny north fork farm, so an early arrival is advised.
Lenny Bruno Farms- Manorville
This humble farm has been family run for over 90 years. You can find their fruits and vegetables being sold not only from the Bruno family property, but they can also be found in Long Island supermarkets like King Kullen or IGA. With a wide array of perfect produce you can find almost any ingredient, such as cranberries, spaghetti squash or even purple cauliflower.
Makinajian Poultry Farm & Country Store- Huntington
Have you waited until the last minute to get your bird and the supermarkets are all sold out? Not a problem. Head out to this organic poultry farm located in the heart of Huntington. Serving certified organic turkeys and chickens, it is an ideal spot to find a farm fresh fowl. They operate on a first-come, first –serve basis so to get the biggest bird, be sure to arrive as early as possible. Even if you already have your turkey, stop by to grab a dozen organic eggs to feed a house full of family members in town for the holiday weekend.
Olish’s Farm- Eastport
With rows upon rows of fuchia, begonias and ivy geraniums hanging in an open greenhouse; Olish’s though still small, is one of the larger farm stands out east. This barn-red farm stand is flanked on all sides by mums of every color. After perusing all the outdoor pumpkins, gourds and autumn-themed tchotchkes, there is still a vast inventory of farm food, flowers and friendly faces on the inside. Besides the typical garden goodies such as garlic, potatoes and chard; Olish’s also has candied apples, whole chestnuts and fresh potted rosemary. They also have local, handmade cheeses that would make a great starter plate to quell a hungry heard.
