farm to table
Relating to a social movement or business model where food is sourced directly from local producers without passing through distributors or wholesalers. It emphasizes freshness, seasonal ingredients, and supporting the local economy.
“We decided to eat at a farm to table restaurant because we wanted to try the local vegetables.”
“The chef prides himself on a farm to table approach, often visiting nearby orchards to select the fruit for his seasonal desserts.”
“Critics argue that while the farm to table ethos promotes environmental sustainability, it often results in a price point that is inaccessible to lower-income communities.”
first recorded 20th c.
The term emerged alongside the organic and local food movements in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, gaining significant cultural momentum through chefs like Alice Waters of Chez Panisse. It was popularized as a reaction against the rise of highly processed, industrialize food systems, focusing instead on the traceability of ingredients from the point of production to the point of consumption.
- 01
bet the farm
To be absolutely certain, to have no doubts.
- 02
bring to the table
To contribute (something) to a joint effort or discussion.
- 03
buy the farm
To die; generally, to die in battle or in a plane crash.
- 04
clear the table
To remove plates, etc. from a table after a meal.
- 05
farm out
To subcontract (a task, responsibility, etc.) to another; to outsource.
- 06
fence the tables
To make a solemn address to those who present themselves to commune at the Lord's Supper, on the feelings appropriate to the service, in order to hinder, so far as possible, those who are unworthy from approaching the table.
- 07
give away the farm
To pay more than one should have; to pay more than fair market value.
- 08
kiddie table
The gathering place, forum, or venue assigned to less prominent or less capable participants in an event.
Last updated September 29, 2026