Growing Locally and Selling Locally in the High Country

From the Watauga Democrat:

..."I took it from there,” she said, “and began growing just a few varieties and selling them at the farmer's market. 

Soon, they developed a fan base at the Watauga County Farmer's Market. “I got better at growing them, and then we contacted Vidalia downtown and they were interested in buying from us for the restaurant,” Jill said.  

“People always think Blowing Rock and Banner Elk for fine dining,” David said, “but some of the best fine dining in the High Country is right here in Boone. Vidalia and Joy Bistro both offer creative menus, professional service and outstanding food.  Our newest customer, Char, is also a local favorite. Outside of Boone, our best restaurant customers are probably The Game Keeper, Westglow Spa, and Jefferson Landing. These places order from us every week — we can count on them, and they can count on us.”

...“We really appreciate the loyalty shown by both our restaurant customers and farmer's market patrons,” David said. “It really helps a small business like ours, when the community appreciates the importance of buying locally.”

The farm currently serves more than 20 restaurants in the High Country, and is expanding into central and coastal North Carolina; the Nicklaws cite New River Organic Growers as “a big help” in literally growing their business.

Full article here.