Posts with tag 'Specialty Foods'

What's not to love about strawberries? They taste delicious, look good on a plate, and are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants. Add some color and sweetness to your summer eating with strawberries you pick yourself at these wonderful farms around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Aufdenkampe Family Farm

3275 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089

The property where Aufdenkampe Family Farm now sits dates back to the Western Reserve. After the Aufdenkampes purchased the farm from its original owners, they became a fixture at the Cleveland Produce Terminal, selling their fresh fruits and vegetables. In 2018, the family decided to focus on strawberries, their most popular crop. The 2022 picking season starts around June 1. Follow them on Facebook for updates.

Fitch's Farm Market

4413 Center Rd., Avon, OH 44011

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Three generations of family work side-by-side at Fitch's Farm Market, founded in 1983 by Richard and wife Rita. Sons Adam and Daniel and grandfather Robert handle everything from field management and harvesting to mechanic duties. In addition to strawberries, visitors can pick their own beans, peppers, and tomatoes in season. Stop by the on-site market for other fruits and vegetables as well as flowers in flats and hanging baskets. Follow them on Facebook for information about u-pick availability. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Maurer Farms 

2901 Batdorf Rd., Wooster, OH 44691

From its humble beginnings in 1950 on a small patch of land along Highland Avenue, Maurer Farms grew into its current location in 1961. Strawberries have been the primary crop since day one, with peaches, sweet corn, and other fruits and vegetables added over the years. Maurer Farms offers u-pick strawberries and raspberries, and their on-site market sells their own produce along with products from other local farmers. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday between late May and mid-October. Watch their website and Facebook page for updates.

Mitchell's Berries & Blooms 

9331 Mitchell-Dewitt Rd., Plain City, OH 43064

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Farmer Paul and wife Shelly, aka Berrygirl, are a match made at OSU. Together they run Mitchell's Berries & Blooms on a farm that's been in the family for more than two centuries. After son Jake doubled their raspberry production, Paul and Shelly took his advice and added strawberries to their crops. With events like Sunrise and Sunset Yoga, Dairy Day, and the Berry Fairy Summer Tea Party, Mitchell's Berries & Blooms offers fun for the whole family. Follow them on Facebook for current information on hours and availability.

Folck Family Farm

6843 State Route 54, Mechanicsburg, OH 43044

Can't get enough fresh berries? You'll be in seventh heaven with a visit to Folck Family Farm. Berry picking season kicks off in late spring with strawberries, followed by raspberries in June and blackberries in July. After growing up on dairy and cattle farms, owner Bob Folck had a successful career in sales, but he couldn't resist the call of the farming life. Bob and wife Cindy began growing berries in 2003, and in 2018 they opened a winery and tasting room selling wine made from the fruits of their fields. Visit their website and Facebook page for updates.

Doran's Farm Market

5462 Babbitt Rd., New Albany, OH 43054

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In the 1970s, Farmer Jim Doran sold his produce right out in the front yard from one of the wagons that are such a nostalgic part of Americana. Fast forward to 2022, and Doran's Farm Market is a popular destination filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, jams and jellies, baked goods, and beverages. Customers also have the opportunity to pick their own strawberries and other select produce. Doran's Farm Market opens with the strawberry season in late May and runs through pumpkin season in early November. Check their website and Facebook page for information.

Irons Fruit Farm

1640 Stubbs Mill Rd., Lebanon, OH 45036

A trip to Irons Fruit Farm is truly an event. Since its beginning in the early 1900s, the farm has expanded to include pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, apples, and pumpkins. The on-site market and bakery is known for the signature cinnamon cider donuts and apple fritters. They also carry jam, jellies, and other specialty products made from produce grown on the farm. Follow them on Facebook for information about the vendor fair, which features local craft artisans as well as food trucks and live entertainment. Summer hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Stokes Berry Farm

2822 Center Rd., Wilmington, OH 45177

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For more than four generations, Stokes Berry Farm has been a fixture in the Cincinnati area. Visitors can pick strawberries and black raspberries from the lush fields or preorder white Georgia peaches, tart Michigan cherries, and other fruits for convenient pickup. The whole family can enjoy a stroll along the creek or catch-and-release fishing in the six-acre lake. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch! There is a $25 fee for a three-hour fishing pass. In-season hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. Watch their Facebook page for posts about the current schedule.

McGlasson Farms

5832 River Rd., Hebron, KY 41048

Located in a scenic rural area, McGlasson Farms is rich with family history. After moving west from Virginia in the 1860s, the McGlassons built a log cabin and began farming the land. While the family had success selling to various markets, they discovered there was even more potential in creating a produce stand on their own property. Today, McGlasson Farms even has a devoted following of customers from all around the region. Visitors can join in the fun picking their own strawberries, blackberries, and other fresh produce. In-season hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekends. Watch the website and Facebook page for schedule information.

Strawberry Fields Forever

Strawberries and cream has been a tradition at the classic Wimbledon tennis tournament since it began in 1877. What's your favorite way to eat strawberries?

Is there anything as enjoyable as biting into a good, juicy burger? If you've been looking for an excuse to indulge your burger craving, the wait is over. May is National Hamburger Month, an occasion to celebrate this American culinary creation. Whether you prefer your burger with or without cheese, thick or thin, there are plenty of great burger restaurants to visit in Columbus. Plan a trip to one of these burger restaurants in celebration.

Bareburger

463 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Bareburger is a staple in Columbus and the surrounding area. Their High Street location is well worth visiting on your lunch break or after a busy workday. Bareburger takes pride in preparing their food with ethically sourced ingredients. Their beef is all organic, grass-fed, and hormone-free. They also offer a great selection of plant-based burgers.

One favorite at Bareburger is the Blazin' Bacon, which is topped with pepper jack, smoked bacon, pickled jalapenos, and habanero mayo. The Guadalupe is a popular plant-based option that comes topped with organic tomatoes, pickled red onions, and avocado. Don't forget to order some truffle asiago fries or organic sweet potato fries for the side.

Flip Side Easton

3945 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219

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Flip Side is a gourmet burger restaurant with a few locations throughout Ohio. All of their beef is grass-fed and raised in Ohio. In addition to burgers, they also offer some incredible craft milkshakes made with local ice cream, and their macaroni and cheese practically has its own fan club.

If you like peanut butter, you have to try Flip Side's Uncle Jimmy burger. It's topped with peanut butter, applewood bacon, and pepper jelly. This may sound like a strange combination, but the ingredients complement each other well. Another fun choice is the One Red Door burger, topped with crispy shallots, melted brie, and applewood bacon aioli. Not a fan of beef? Flip Side offers an Impossible Burger, along with several turkey burger options.

Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern

340 E. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215

Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern is a local pub that has a few great burgers on the menu. They make their burgers with Certified Angus Beef, but you can substitute chicken breast if desired. The Chimi Burger is a great choice if you like smash burgers. It's topped with melty jack cheese, chimichurri, caramelized onions, and bacon. They also have a build-your-own burger option.

Matt and Tony's is a great place to celebrate National Burger Month with kids. They have a dedicated kids' menu with options including a burger, mac & cheese, and chicken tenders.

Alley Burger

26 N. High St. Rear, Columbus, OH 43215

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You enter this casual restaurant from an alley, and that's part of the appeal. It's tucked away like a secret, but it's a secret worth sharing. Alley Burger often has live music, and the chef relies on traditional family restaurants to make delicious meals.

At Ally Burger, you don't have to stick with a beef burger, though their beef burgers are certainly delicious. The Fish Burger is a popular choice; it's topped with a house-made Creole tartar sauce. The Greek Burger, made with tzatziki cream, banana peppers, and feta, is another smart choice. Make sure you order some fries for the table. There are lots of creative options, such as the Oscar Alley fries topped with chorizo, pico de gallo, lime crema, chimichurri, and cheese.

Burger Theory Columbus

175 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

With a name like Burger Theory, you'd expect this place to have some creative, innovative burger choices. And the selection does not disappoint! Even their BT House burger comes topped with their own KGB Sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, try The Boss. It's actually two burgers stuffed with bacon, onion, cheddar, and Swiss cheese. Pair it with some Parmesan-panko onion rings, and you have a truly munch-worthy meal.

Mason Jar Treats are another favorite at Burger Theory. They're the perfect, sweet way to end a meal. Choose from flavors like key lime pie, s'mores, and carrot cake. Visit Burger Theory Monday-Friday from 5-7 pm for Happy Hour Specials, which vary by the day.

Arch City Tavern

862 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Located in the Arts District, Arch City Tavern is known for their lively happy hours. Visit Monday-Friday between 3 and 6 pm to take advantage of their drink specials. Of course, you'll want to order a burger while you're there. The Arch City Burger, topped with muenster cheese, onions, cilantro, chile aioli, and peppered bacon, is excellent, and try the lamb sliders instead if you want to be a little experimental.

The bartenders at Arch City Tavern are pretty talented, making this a good place to order cocktails. Their Smoked Tavern Old Fashioned, in particular, is incredible. They also have a delicious Spiced Pear & Pomegranate Margarita.

Press Grill

741 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Press Grill is a casual neighborhood bar and restaurant serving craft cocktails and house-made cuisine. They always have a good selection of Ohio-brewed craft beers on tap.

One of the top choices here is the Press Burger. You can choose a single, double, or triple patty. Add cheese or a fried egg for something extra special. If you have a big appetite, then add on some sides. The Yukon Gold potato salad is delicious, as is the Texas toast. Even the balsamic greens are fresh, delicious, and a great way to get your veggies.

Get Your Burger On!

National Burger Month comes but once a year. Where will you be getting your burger on this May?

Cleveland rocks, and we're not just talking about music. Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cleveland is a perfect blend of sights, sounds, and activities that represent the best of Northeast Ohio.

Whether you're off on a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or an adventure with friends, put these amazing places in Cleveland on your must-see list.

Cleveland Museum of Art

11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106

With more than 750,000 guests each year, the internationally renowned Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the most-visited art museums in the world. Founded in 1913 by a group of local industrialists, the museum holds a comprehensive collection of more than 61,000 works, highlighted by their well-regarded holdings of Egyptian and Asian art. Even the neoclassical building itself is a stunning work of art, while its setting of Wade Park is on the National Register of Historic Places. Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday except Friday when hours are extended until 9 p.m. Admission is free for all visitors.

West Side Market

1979 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113

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Out of three vibrant public markets that served Cleveland's diverse and growing population in the early 20th century, only West Side Market remains. While local residents still flock to the market for shopping and dining, it's no longer a hidden gem. Tourists from across the country visit the market, drawn by glowing coverage from national sources such as Food Network and Travel Channel. The iconic tower with its Seth Thomas clock presides over more than 100 vendors selling top-quality meats and seafood, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, specialty items, and ready-to-eat foods. West Side Market is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Kimpton Schofield Hotel

2000 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, OH 44115

The Kimpton Schofield Hotel is quirky and colorful yet classic and traditional, much like Cleveland itself. Housed in a landmark downtown building restored to its original facade, the charming boutique hotel features pet-friendly guest rooms with pillow-top beds, luxury linens and bath accessories, and Victorian-style artwork. Amenities range from a fully-equipped fitness center to complimentary Micro Kickboard scooters for kids to use. Visit the website for information about special offers and hospitality packages.

Playhouse Square

1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115

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Live theater offers a magical energy that's different from other forms of entertainment. Playhouse Square has the distinction of being the largest performing arts center in the country outside of New York City. As one of Broadway's touring partners, Playhouse stages first-class productions of Waitress, To Kill a Mockingbird, and other eagerly anticipated shows. Playhouse Square also serves as home to the Cleveland Ballet, Cleveland International Film Festival, DANCECleveland, and Tri-C Jazz Fest. Visit the website to view the full calendar of events and ticket information.

Cleveland Metroparks

4101 Fulton Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44144

Most urban parks are an oasis of greenery tucked away inside a city. Cleveland Metroparks is a dazzling network of 18 reservations that circle the city, earning it the nickname of the "Emerald Necklace." The system sprawls across more than 24,000 acres, including 300 miles of trails, eight golf courses, nature education centers, and countless fishing spots. In the midst of this exciting variety of activities is the glittering centerpiece of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Park grounds are open 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily. Zoo hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. seven days a week, extended to 5 p.m. from April through October. Tickets are $16.95 for adults and $12.95 for ages 2-11.

Butcher and the Brewer

2043 E. Fourth St., Cleveland, OH 44115

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Butcher and the Brewer offers an inventive take on two staples of the Cleveland culinary scene: meat and beer. An in-house butcher and charcutier handle the former, while the latter is brewed on-site in the century-old, 13,000-square-foot building. Long tables and public house-style seating promote a convivial atmosphere, complemented by communal dining from the creative menu of small plates. Customer favorites include the crispy pork belly and kimchi, an Asian-flavored take on Italian arancini. Butcher and the Brewer is open 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 4 p.m. - midnight Friday and Saturday.

Stone Gables Inn

3806 Franklin Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44113

Are conventional hotels a little too cookie-cutter for your taste? Immerse yourself in the authentic Cleveland experience with a stay at Stone Gables Inn. This delightful boutique hotel is located in a picturesque historic mansion in trendy Ohio City, whose motto is "A Complete Cleveland Neighborhood." Owners Jeff and Connie bought the inn after spending many nights there themselves while renovating a nearby duplex. Each guest room has a private bathroom, and there is no front desk, which adds to the homey ambiance. Visit the website for rate information and reservations.

A Christmas Story House & Museum

3159 W. 11th St., Cleveland, OH 44109

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A favorite holiday tradition comes to life at A Christmas Story House & Museum. The green-trimmed Victorian in Cleveland's Tremont neighborhood has been restored to the same appearance it had as the Parker home in the classic holiday movie. Megafans can actually spend the night sleeping in Ralphie's and Randy's beds in the home's private third-floor loft. Across the street is the museum, which holds memorabilia such as props and costumes, and the gift shop, where you can purchase a leg lamp of your own. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $15 for adults and $11 for ages 3-12.

International Women's Air & Space Museum

Burke Lakefront Airport, 1501 N. Marginal Rd., Cleveland, OH 44114

Aviator Amelia Earhart and astronaut Sally Ride are just two of the pioneers whose accomplishments are honored at the International Women's Air & Space Museum. Exhibits such as "Women of NASA" and "Link GAT-1 Flight Simulator" are part of the museum's goal to showcase the history and culture of women in flight for current and future generations. Museum hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily, while the gift shop is open weekdays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is free for all visitors.

It's Only Rock 'n' Roll, but I Like It

In honor of Cleveland's status as the home of rock and roll, which musician or group would be #1 in your personal hall of fame?

Oh, cheesecake. It's hard to imagine any dessert more rich and delicious. Whether you prefer yours topped with strawberries, drizzled with chocolate, or layered with caramel sauce, you deserve to indulge every now and then. Here are some of the top places to enjoy cheesecake in Northeast Ohio.

Studio Bakery

4339 Dressler Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718

Studio Bakery creates beautiful, artistic baked goods. Everything is made from scratch, using high-quality ingredients. Their cookies are meticulously decorated and creatively designed, and their cheesecake is some of the best around. Guests love their chocolate crinkle and bananas foster, made with fresh bananas and rum.

This artistic bakeshop is always adding new options to the menu, so you never know which decadent cheesecake they'll have when you stop by. They serve coffee and have a few tables in the shop, so you can easily enjoy your dessert on-site.

Sprinkle City

706 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720

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Sprinkle City is a cheerful little bakery on North Canton. They're widely known for their wedding cakes and special occasion cakes, but their cheesecake is incredible, too. There's an entire section of their menu dedicated to it, and they offer a variety of flavors, including classic, strawberry, chocolate, lemon, and pumpkin swirl.

Sprinkle City also sells miniature cheesecakes, which are the perfect weeknight treat. The shop is only open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, so be sure to plan your visit.

Sweet Sadie's Desserts

24th St. NW, Canton, OH 44709

Sweet Sadie's Desserts was founded in 2015 and quickly became a favorite in Northeast Ohio. The owner, Sade, does all of the baking herself. The shop's motto is Real Flavors, Real Love, and the love comes through as you taste the cheesecake.

The best way to enjoy cheesecake from Sweet Sadie's is to order online via their website. Sade's menu changes regularly, with new items being added often. Past customers have loved the cherry cheesecake, which is smooth and creamy with a sweet cherry topping.

Sweet Mary's Bakery

76 E. Mill St., Akron, OH 44308

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Sweet Mary's Bakery is a woman-owned business and an Akron staple. They recently expanded their kitchen and menu, making this the perfect time to stop by. Sweet Mary's does not have a dining room, so plan on taking your cheesecake to-go. Order a whole one and bring it home to share with your family for dessert, or just order a slice for yourself.

Raspberry cheesecake is a favorite here. It's topped with a house-made raspberry glaze and fresh berries. Other options include lemon meringue and turtle. Some of the cheesecakes are even gluten-free!

BB's Sweet Treats

Akron, OH 44113

BB's Sweet Treats is an Akron-based online bakery that will deliver tasty cheesecake straight to your home. Browse their selection on their website, then contact them for a quote when you're ready to order.

While BB's does sell a lot of traditional cakes, their selection of cheesecakes is nothing short of incredible. The butter pecan is so buttery and creamy it melts in your mouth. They also have a tasty white chocolate raspberry cheesecake, along with a key lime cheesecake that will knock your socks off. Other flavors include blueberry, cherry, and strawberry. Add a few cheesecake-stuffed chocolate strawberries to your order for a special touch.

Chef Gina's Bakeshop

21 Furnace St., Akron, OH 44308

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Chef Gina's Bakeshop is the creation of Gina Giampietro, a professional pastry chef who studied at the Culinary Institute of America. She creates a variety of sweets, including eclairs, sugar cookies, and macarons. If you're looking for something unique to try, cheesecake macarons are a great choice.

Gina's menu also includes mini cheesecakes, which are lovely for serving at parties. Order them ahead on the bakery's website to ensure you have enough.

Larder Delicatessen and Bakery

1455 W. 29th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113

Larder Delicatessen has quite the reputation in Cleveland. They were even nominated for the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2019. With an emphasis on Eastern European baked goods and ingredients, they create all sorts of treats, ranging from babka to knish.

While you're at Larder, it only makes sense to enjoy a full meal. Complete that meal with an order of cheesecake, which is classic and creamy. They'll wrap it up for you to take home if you're too full to enjoy it on-site.

Chanelle's Treatz

13204 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

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Chanelle's Treatz is a popular, modern bakery in Cleveland. They make all sorts of creative cakes and cupcakes, and they have a whole menu of specialty cheesecakes. Chocolate peanut butter, cherry cobbler, strawberry crunch supreme, Oreo dream, and red velvet are all popular choices.

All of Chanelle's cheesecakes come in either regular size or "triple" size, which is great for a larger party. In addition to being delicious, these cheesecakes are beautifully decorated and look incredible on a table. Stop by their shop, or place an online order on their website.

Presti's Bakery

12101 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

Located in Cleveland's Little Italy, Presti's Bakery first opened in 1903. They still use traditional Italian recipes and ingredients to create their baked goods, including cheesecake. Should you want a meal before your cheesecake, their cafe serves pizza, stromboli, deli sandwiches, and other favorites.

As Presti's cheesecake is Italian cheesecake, it has a lighter texture and less-sweet flavor than you may be used to. It's a nice change of pace and well worth ordering. Presti's serves a turtle version of their cheesecake, too. Pair your slice with a cup of espresso or a delicious cappuccino for an indulgent experience. 

Cheesecake Heaven

What's your favorite style of cheesecake?

Did you know that maple syrup, like wine, has a specific flavor derived from the geographic area where it's produced? Maple syrup is a Northeast Ohio tradition that predates statehood, and the product is regarded as some of the finest in the country.

Maple tree sap starts running in February, making this a prime time to enjoy syrup and maple-flavored foods. Whether you participate in Maple Madness or conduct your own driving tour, check out the delicious products from these great maple syrup farms and shops.

KC Maple Syrup

16350 Hart Rd., Montville, OH 44064

In 1988, the fledgling run at KC Maple Syrup resulted in a half-gallon of syrup from the sap of about 20 trees. Continued expansion led to the addition of a sugarhouse in 1994. Now their first-class operation includes 450 taps, a 30" x 8' evaporator, and a reverse osmosis (RO) unit for water filtration. All the hard work at KC Maple Syrup was rewarded when they took first place at the 2010 Geauga County Maple Festival. You can even get maple-flavored doggie treats so Fido won't feel left out.

Seldom Seen Farm

10055 Madison Rd., Montville, OH 44064

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Family-owned Seldom Seen Farm is one of the more recent additions to Northwest Ohio's maple syrup network. In 2008, Kevin and Morgan Holy purchased the property and turned their maple syrup hobby into a business. While Kevin hopes to give up his day job someday, he continues to work for local government as an equipment operator while Morgan cares for their two kids. That day may come sooner rather than later, as Seldom Seen Farm is the reigning champion of the Geauga County Maple Festival. Order online or visit the farm Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. by appointment only.

Mowry Maple Farm

3736 State Hwy. 13, Lexington, OH 44904

While Mowry Maple Farm celebrated its 100th anniversary last year, it was originally known for cattle. About 10 years ago, third-generation family member Richard and his wife Carol became intrigued with maple syrup production on the recommendation of a friend, who loaned them supplies. Now maple syrup has become the farm's biggest claim to fame. Experiment in your own cooking with products such as BBQ rub, hot pepper butter, savory herb-maple blend, maple sugar and cinnamon, and habanero-infused syrup. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday.

Ma & Pa's Gift Shack

15161 Main Market Rd., Burton, OH 44021

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Originally built in the 1820s, Ma & Pa's Gift Shack is just as cozy and charming as the name implies. The shelves in the rustic log cabin are filled with syrups, butters and spreads, and other maple products made on-site. Warm up with a cup of maple coffee after one of Ma & Pa's popular sleigh rides when the ground is snow-covered. Ma & Pa's is also known for its wooden lamps and furniture carved out of hickory. Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are required for sleigh rides.

Messenger Century Farm

17098 Messenger Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

The Messenger family began producing maple syrup in the mid-1800s. While Bill and Dee Belew purchased Messenger Century Farm in 1992, it remains a family-run operation, with three generations of Belews involved. State-of-the-art, "green" equipment replaces buckets and horses, but the original Messenger sugarhouse remains standing as a tribute to the earlier days. Be sure to return in July, when you can pick your own blueberries. The Messenger country store is open daily from 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sugarbush Creek Farm

13034 Madison Rd., Middlefield, OH 44062

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How appropriate that Sugarbush Creek Farm had their first sap boil of 2022 on February 14, the "sweetest" day of the year. While the current farm was established in 1992, trees on the property have been tapped for more than 200 years. The sugarhouse is on the same spot as the original, but it was rebuilt to modern standards using wood sustainably harvested from the farm. Thanks to another update, the entire operation can be monitored on a smartphone app. Sugarbush Creek Farm is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Richards Maple Products

545 Water St., Chardon, OH 44024

Maple salad dressing and maple bacon coffee? Those are only two in the remarkable assortment of items found at Richards Maple Products. Located in Geauga County since 1910, the shop truly seems to live up to its boast of "the world's largest variety of maple products." Surprise family and friends anywhere in the country with a gift box, basket, or crate filled with syrup, cookies, condiments, spreads, and other maple-flavored goodies. Subscription programs are available on a monthly or quarterly schedule. Store hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Burton Log Cabin & Sugar Camp

14590 E. Park St., Burton, OH 44021

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As the first settlement in Geauga County, dating back to 1798, Burton is a quiet community full of history and charm. The town square is modeled after New England's iconic village greens, and maple syrup is such a part of local tradition that the Burton Log Cabin & Sugar Camp is operated by the Chamber of Commerce. Syrup produced each spring is used to make maple candy throughout the year. The Log Cabin also serves as the town's information center. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. seven days a week.

Sweet or Savory?

Blending sweet and savory flavors is one of today's popular food trends. Do you enjoy maple with bacon, hot sauce, and other savory items, or are you a purist who sticks with maple syrup?