Discover Volante Farms: Fresh, Local, & "A Place For All Seasons"
Is it possible to cultivate a sense of community and culinary excellence within the embrace of a single farm? Volante Farms in Needham, Massachusetts, a testament to a century of growth, unequivocally answers in the affirmative.
More than just a purveyor of fresh produce, Volante Farms has blossomed into a vibrant hub, a testament to the enduring power of family, tradition, and a deep connection to the land. It's a place where the seasons unfold in a symphony of flavors, aromas, and experiences. From the early days of the 1900s, when it was a humble farm, it has gracefully expanded, embracing a store that offers a variety of foods, an ice cream shop, a bakery, and a restaurant. It is, in essence, an upscale, one-stop shopping destination. Nestled in Needham, the Volante family continues to cultivate the land with a dedication passed down through generations.
The roots of Volante Farms run deep, anchored in Needham's rich soil. In addition to the home field, the Volante family cultivates two other parcels of land, extending their reach across the town. Since 1976, they've been raising crops on leased land at the Greenway's Farm on Charles River Street. In 1991, a pivotal moment arrived with the purchase of the Standish Road field from the estate of George Winslow. This acquisition encompassed over 50 acres, which provided fertile ground for expansion.
The farm's dedication extends to serving the community and providing fresh, locally sourced products. They have the unique opportunity to pick only what they sell each day. The produce you purchase is at the peak of freshness, free from preservatives, and has traveled no more than three miles to reach the farm stand.
Volante Farms is known for its homegrown produce, and the farm also provides homemade baked goods, dairy, meats, flowers, and specialty foods. Beyond its farm stand, Volante Farms features a garden center and seasonal offerings, making the farm a destination.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Volante Farms |
| Location | 292 Forest St, Needham, MA 02492, United States |
| Founded | Early 1900s |
| Generations Involved | 4th Generation |
| Key Products | Locally Grown Produce, Baked Goods, Dairy, Meats, Flowers, Specialty Foods |
| Offerings | Farm Stand, Garden Center, Bakery, Deli, Ice Cream Shop, Restaurant |
| Key Family Members (recent) | Dave Volante (NHS '99), Teri Volante (NHS '03), Steve Volante (NHS '06) |
| Parents Involved | Al and Melody Volante |
| Farm Expansion | In addition to the home field, two other parcels of land across Needham. |
| Past Land Use | Leased land at the Greenway's Farm on Charles River St, Needham since 1976, and in 1991, the Standish Road field was purchased from the estate of George Winslow. |
| Website | Volante Farms Website |
The culinary offerings at Volante Farms are just as diverse. Their kitchen & deli serves an extensive menu of sandwiches made with boar's head meat and cheese, all prepared with homemade condiments, homegrown veggies, and offered on a variety of local breads. From classic favorites to innovative creations, there's something to tempt every palate. Fresh coffee is available, including cold brew. Iced lattes with espresso over ice with milk are also offered. They also serve coffee and breakfast items from their bakery, sandwiches from the deli, grab-and-go farm fresh dinner entrees and sides and hand scooped ice cream from crescent ridge dairy.
For those looking for specific items, the farmstand is the place to go. The list of local apples available changes daily, so it's best to call ahead. The website, undergoing reconstruction, will provide more information about the specific products offered. When you see a green "homegrown" sign, rest assured that the produce was grown at one of their three fields in Needham.
Volante Farms is truly a place for all seasons, a reflection of the family's dedication and hard work. The evolution of Volante Farms is a heartwarming testament to the power of family legacy and the profound connection between land, community, and the joy of a shared meal.
