OUR STORY
4th Generation Family-Owned Business
A historical farm in a historical county. Dating back to 1693, Old Tavern Farm has been dedicated to providing for our community.
OUR HISTORY
At Old Tavern Farm, the Bryant and Fisher family has been cultivating the land for over a century. Originally a tavern serving hot meals to travelers between Richmond and Williamsburg, today the farm spans 35 acres and produces all-natural, sustainably grown vegetables and fruits, eggs, beef and artisanal pork.
John Bryant, the current owner and farmer, learned the ropes of farming as a child, working alongside his grandfather and great uncle. After a stint in the corporate world, he returned to his roots and now operates the farm with a crew that prioritizes soil health and follows organic standards.
The farm's sustainable practices include crop rotation, rotational grazing, cover cropping, and composting, as well as the use of organic fertilizers like worm tea and fish and seaweed emulsion. The pigs are raised on non-GMO feed and have plenty of space to roam, even in their final stages of life. In fact, the farm's primary packing facility was designed by Temple Grandin, a woman with autism who has trail-blazed the humane treatment of livestock.
Old Tavern Farm's offerings include a diverse selection of products. They also offer plant starters, fresh-cut flowers, and even pick-your-own blackberries and sunflowers in the summer. You can find their products at farmer's markets around Richmond and Williamsburg, as well as their full-service farm store, which is open seasonally.
In addition to their agricultural offerings, the farm also has an on-site wood-fired pottery kiln and art gallery. They even sell locally made honey, jams, soaps, and medicinal balms and tinctures. Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through on Interstate 64, be sure to stop by Old Tavern Farm and say hello to John and his crew.
About Our Hens
Our heritage free-range chickens are part of the family. They are known for their high-quality, flavorful eggs, which are sought after by many food enthusiasts. These chickens are allowed to roam freely, foraging for food and engaging in natural behaviors such as dust bathing and scratching. As a result, their eggs are packed with nutrients and have a richer taste than eggs from factory-farmed chickens. Heritage free-range chicken eggs are also known to have thicker shells, which makes them more resistant to breakage and extends their shelf life. By supporting small-scale, free-range chicken farming, consumers can enjoy delicious and nutritious eggs while also promoting sustainable and ethical practices in the food industry.
About Our Hogs
Heritage Red Wattle Hogs are a rare breed of domesticated pigs that originated in the United States. As their name suggests, they are characterized by their distinctive red color and a pair of fleshy wattles that hang from their necks. These hogs are highly valued for their high-quality, flavorful meat, which is sought after by many chefs and foodies. They are also known for their hardiness, adaptability, and docile nature, making them a popular choice for small-scale and sustainable pig farming operations. Despite their many virtues, Heritage Red Wattle Hogs are still considered a threatened breed, with only a few thousand individuals remaining in the world today. Efforts are being made to conserve and protect this unique and valuable breed for future generations.
About Our Cows
Black Angus cows are a breed of beef cattle that are highly valued for their meat. They are known for producing beef that is marbled with fat, which results in a tender, juicy and flavorful meat. The marbling also contributes to a rich taste and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Our cows are raised on pasture and finished on grain, which helps to further enhance the quality and taste of their meat. Making them sought after by many restaurants and consumers who are looking for a high-quality, delicious, and nutritious source of protein.