Here in Montana, you would think accessing fresh, organic produce would be nearly impossible due to our arid conditions and endless winters. Here’s the thing: that’s not true! In 2016, the USDA found that Montana had more than 266,000 acres dedicated to certified organic farming run by 156 operations. Organic agriculture in Montana has been expanding ever since. At Feast, we could not be more delighted.
At Feast Raw Bar & Bistro, we are privileged to source many of our ingredients from organic, local purveyors. Having access to such incredible, organic bounty right here close to home in Montana is what makes the food we prepare unique, fresh, and memorable. It’s why our guests find our food so special and why locals consider Feast one of the best Bozeman restaurants.
We take pride in partnering with local farmers, ranchers, and suppliers who have dedicated themselves to organic farming practices and raise, grow, and produce remarkable food. One of the incredible Montana purveyors we have the pleasure of partnering with is Cloud Nine Farm, a family-operated farm well-known in the region for its super leafy greens and seed mixes. Let us introduce you to the impactful methods Cloud Nine Farm uses to farm their organic produce and share with you some of the ways we incorporate their products into our Feast-favorite dishes.
What are the Benefits of Organic Food?
Demand for fresh organic fruit and vegetables has been rising and for a good reason. There are many benefits. One benefit is that organic farming practices help improve soil health and water quality. Better soil and water lead to better produce. Another benefit of organic food is that studies show that produce grown using organic farming methods has lower traces of pesticides. So, it means that organic food is good for the environment and good for our bodies. Cloud Nine Farm has been organic farming for over a decade.
About Cloud Nine Farm
Located in the breathtaking Shields River Valley, Wilsall, MT, is a small, thriving cowboy town where the annual summer Wilsall Rodeo draws in locals from the surrounding areas. It is the kind of place where you go to get away from the crowds and be surrounded by sweeping landscapes. Just outside of town— positioned at an elevation of 5,300 feet—is where you will find Cloud Nine Farm.
Started in 2008 by Allison and Seann Rooney, Cloud Nine Farm is a biodiverse family farm that specializes in raising livestock and growing vegetables, herbs, seedlings, and fruit trees. The produce they grow includes an Amazing Braising Mix, which is an “ever-changing blend of baby to mid-size leafy greens, shoots, and blossoms of over 20 different kinds of plants.” They also grow four varieties of specialty greens: spicy Asian Radish, nutrient-dense broccoli, colorful Spicy Mix, and a nutty sunflower. Along with their specialty greens, they also cultivate a dynamic seasonal salad mix blend, heirloom romaine hearts, and pasture seed mixes.
Cloud Nine Farm is highly dedicated to holistically growing its produce and only growing its greens in small batches. They call this their ‘holisticgoal’ because their goal is to farm a regenerated and biodiverse landscape. They believe their farm can contribute to building local food security while creating a space for rest and regeneration. They never use harmful or poisonous chemicals or GMOs in their farming processes. And their greens are carefully chosen for their rich flavors, diverse textures, wonderful colors, and dense nutrient contents. Their dream is to “grow beautiful, great tasting foods that are good medicine for body, heart, and soul!”
How We Use Cloud Nine Farm Products
In our menu, we love to garnish our dishes with the flavorful and nutrient-dense microgreens produced by Cloud Nine Farms. In particular, their Asian Radish are especially delicious on our sashimi plates. This spicy mix adds a fresh kick to the grilled meats of our Butcher’s Cut. And like so many of our other dishes, when we use Cloud Nine Farm produce, our plates show the passion of people who produce delicious, organic food.
The Importance of Locally Sourced Produce
We are advocates for sourcing our produce locally from within the state we love so much. Locally sourced produce and ingredients are important because they help lift up our community by supporting our local economy. They are great for the environment, and the quality of local produce—like that grown at Cloud Nine Farm—is very high and always incredibly fresh. Locally-sourced food is what makes our meals extraordinary and our guests’ dining experiences unique. It is why we are proud to be one of the best places to eat in Bozeman.
Enjoy the Best Local Produce at Feast
Ready to enjoy the freshest greens you have ever tasted? Make a reservation at Feast Bar & Bistro for dinner tonight! Reserve your table online or call us at (406) 577-2377.