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Marin Sun Farms
Category: Food Farmers Market Farmers Market [Edit]
10905 Hwy 1Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
(415) 663-8997
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 11 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
56 reviews for Marin Sun Farms
Review Highlights
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"And this is the place to get your grass-fed beef." In 4 reviews -
"...free (cage free and free range doesn't always really mean..." In 6 reviews -
"...love Marin Sun Farms beef jerky and the pork fries." In 3 reviews
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56 reviews in English
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Review from Monarch B.
San Francisco, CA
4/14/2012
Awesome butcher sells local lamb, beef and goat and poultry.
We stop here and stock up on whatever fresh sausage they have every time we head up to picnic at the Tomales Bay Oyster Company. We usually stop on the way back to get something special to cook at home.
It's worth the extra cost to get meat that is so fresh and tasty and hormone-free. You can get any cut of lamb - even a full leg. They also sell local goat. Yesterday we got a 1 lb. sirloin of goat roast, fully trussed, for about $12. I can't wait to cook it.
They have a freezer case with home made stock (beef, lamb, chicken, pork, duck, and several more) and all different kinds of soup that all come in a big mason jar. They sell fresh eggs, chicken and duck. They have a deli on site that we've never tried, but always smells heavenly.
Bottom line: this is the real deal for locovores and foodies. It's not cheap, but it's not outrageous, either. You get what you pay for, here. -
Review from Karla R.
2/7/2012
I've had two main experiences with MSF.
CUSTOM ORDER
I needed about 10 pounds of ground duck meat to make duck burgers.. we "ate" the enemy this year for our Stanford football tailgates, so of course needed duck for the Oregon game. After calling a number of butchers around Palo Alto, I got in touch with Danny at MSF. As a former band member, he was happy to help with our request at a reasonable price. Having never made duck burgers before, we arranged to pick up a single pound to try it out- I was really appreciative that MSF was able to accommodate this request. Anyways, working with MSF was a breeze, and the burgers were FANTASTIC. We used an adaptation of this recipe:
http://marriedwithdinn...
CSA BOX
My husband and I get a custom box- with 1 pound of sausage (usually 3 sausages), 1 pound of ground meat, and 3 pounds of braise/stew meat. We've had 3 shipments so far and have been very happy with the items we've received. All of the meat is frozen when we pick it up. And I must highly recommend picking up at the Polarica site in SF because they will hold your shipment for you- you don't need to pick it up on the specific pick-up date. And you can buy extra meat goodies from Polarica (all of their game sausages are fantastic).
If you are interested in getting a variety of meats, including items you wouldn't normally buy (our main reason for joining), I definitely recommend MSF. -
Review from carmine g.
San Francisco, CA
5/23/2012
What Happened?. I,ve been going to Marin Sun for years. This was an unbeatable place for excellent burgers and fries. I believe there is a recent new ownership and the whole experience has changed. Prices have been raised 18 to 25 percent. (Which would be OK if they kept up the quality. They no longer make those large french fries and have substituted something comparable to the shoestring fries you can get anywhere with fast food. My favorite lamb burger was overdone, and tough. The waitress did offer a beer after my concerns. but I dont think I would repeat another visit.
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Review from Kersey S.
Corte Madera, CA
4/5/2012
The food at this place was amazing... and I do mean amazing! I had an omelet of sort w/ ham, goat cheese, and other manners of deliciousness, along w/ their fries which are cooked in lard (mmmm lard!). the arugula salad that came with was also delicious as was the hard cider.
the only negative was i ordered a side of bacon b/c i was in the mood for bacon, and for some reason the bacon was horrible, as in the worst bacon ever! really weird for a place that has delicious ham and other meats. -
Review from S S.
Oakland, CA
5/4/2012
Well, I don't know what went wrong but I just ate a plate of the palest scrambled eggs I've had in recent memory. I've been buying amazing farm fresh eggs from Say Hay farms at the Grand Lake farmers market, but missed it this week so bought a dozen of Marin Sun Farm's eggs from Rainbow Grocery. One after another, this entire dozen has disappointed me. Flat, pale yellow lusterless yolks that break easily. These are not worth $8.80.
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Review from Turanga L.
San Francisco, CA
11/6/2011
The following review is for the butcher shop only.
Decor and atmosphere: NA
Noise level: NA
Meat quality: 5
(Super fresh and yummy.
Recommendations: grass-fed lamb and beef)
Price: 5
(Some prices are better than Whole Foods)
Service: 5
(friendly and super helpful) -
Review from Jim S.
Santa Clara, CA
Updated - 3/10/2012
The steak was lousy, too! We have a lot of experience cooking grass fed beef. This was flavorless and tough. Shocking, really! Had I been served the ham, the bacon or the beef in any restaurant, I would have sent them back.
The fresh eggs were great..........1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/6/2012
There is probably a lot to like about this place...unfortunately, I had a very mixed experience.… Read more »
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Review from Ada T.
9/11/2011 3 photos
Holy hell these people know how to make a burger.
Planning on having a picnic during our hike later, my boyfriend and I decided to share a burger for lunch. We recognized the error of our ways the moment we bit into the juicy lamb burger. Everything was such excellent quality, from the sesame bun to the tomato marmalade to of course the meat, and worked together perfectly. This is definitely one of the best burgers I've had, and I've eaten plenty in my 23 years.
The pork fries were also nicely fried so that they were quite crispy without feeling greasy. I liked that the burger came with a salad rather than fries, though, so that I got some greens in.
The atmosphere is enjoyable too...it's pleasant to go somewhere that's not a crazy hot spot, where you can find a seat immediately and be one of only a handful of people in the restaurant.
Looking forward to coming back soon...no sharing next time! -
Review from Lawrence T.
Mountain View, CA
10/4/2011
The Burgers are the BOMB! A medium rare beef burger is salaciously delicious. after a bite it takes food porn to a whole new XXX rated level. The lamb burger was scrumptious, juicy and mouth watering darn right tasty.
The thick cut frys were crispy but I was hoping for more of a bacon taste... when you think pork fat don't you think bacon... well I did.
Overall an excellent meal with all natural ingredients. I was only disappointed by the lack of HFCS (high fructose corn syrup) in my soda. I really wanted some caffeine to stave off the inevitable food coma and had to settle for black tea.
next time I will have to bring my own HFCS soda.
Good thing they take credit cards because lunch for 2 was $50. -
Review from David K.
Oakland, CA
3/24/2012
This is what a burger should be. Simply prepared and delicious. Hands down the best burger I've ever had!!! This review is for both the beef burger and a half beef half goat burger.
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Review from Ken M.
Berkeley, CA
7/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
Excellent lamb-burgers! Several good burger options --- the choices drop off rapidly after that. The salads are fine, but this isn't my favorite place for vegetarian fare.
One very gonzo 80s-loving waiter was dominating the stereo; the bare incandescent bulbs (on during daylight) are neither attractive nor energy-efficient; dessert options seemed thin. -
Review from Alameda C.
Alameda, CA
Updated - 3/25/2012
A quick update to apprise folks of the rack of lamb: Top shelf and absolutely delicious. Too much rain for me to grill/roast them but they were fantastic done in the oven. Great, fresh lamb flavor and not the gaminess most people associate with lamb. And tender beyond belief, even when reheated (hard to believe we had leftovers huh?). I can't wait for our next visit and next round of this establishment's meats. Man oh man, what a find!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/20/2012
What a find! We stopped off here on our way home from a week up and down the coast and taking in… Read more »
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Review from Minnie P.
San Francisco, CA
6/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
I had the best burger of my life here!
The food was phenomenal - rustic and thoughtful. We also loved the pork salad with preserved lemons, pork-fat fries, and fennel sausage. It was a warm and sun-shiny day when we visited, so we hung out and had some local beers before heading back (with a sack full of delicious, beautiful cuts). Well worth a trip across the bridge! -
Review from Jim B.
San Rafael, CA
1/3/2012
Shockingly good burgers -- quite possibly the best I've ever tasted. Fries also very good. Friendly service. Stop here for sure after your hike in West Marin -- or hell, just make this your destination lunch!
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Review from amber a.
Los Altos, CA
3/14/2012
I love getting our CSA box from Marin farms! They deliver to our work every two weeks and you never know what you will get. Goat ribs? Sure, why not! They meat has been so awesome and fresh. Many of the items I cook in the crockpot, and they turn out perfect.
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Review from Angie C.
10/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great outdoor seating area with hay bales and wood tables to eat on. Inside is also strangely sexy for what is essentially a room full of fresh meats. I especially love Marin Sun Farms beef jerky and the pork fries :)
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Review from Joe G.
8/26/2011
I think Martin Luther King was inspired by his meal at Marin Sun Farms when he said, "Occasionally in life there are those moments of unutterable fulfillment which cannot be completely explained by those symbols called words." And I would agree with him.
Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from j s.
Oakland, CA
11/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Best burger I've had in years. Good fries, nice outdoor seating for a warm day. That's about the sum of my review.
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Review from Sonja S.
Sunnyvale, CA
11/18/2010
Hello, my name is Sonja and I am a MEAT CLUB member!
As of now I have received package Number 4 as part of my CSA member subscription and I am super happy and satisfied.
Yes, grass fed meat has a different taste and texture compared what you are used to and able to buy in your typical grocery store (even Whole Foods). With that being said, the meat quality and taste is definitely above average and well worth the money spent.
I am subscribing to package number #3 (http://www.marinsunfar...) and the variety of different species and cuts is great. The packages come frozen, so no problem to keep it in the freezer for a little while. The only downside is that I do end up with a lot of ground meat, even though it is clearly indicated, I underestimated how much it actually is. Nonetheless this is the best investment I recently made into my health and taste buds.
If you are still skeptical and not sure if that's the right thing for you, consider all the benefits starting with your own health, the environment and also the animals.
Want to try the quality first? Visit Marin Sun Farms butcher locations in the Market Hall in Oakland or the Ferry Building in San Francisco.
Still hesitant? Email Marin Sum Farms, they promptly reply and are happy to answer all of your questions via email or phone. -
Review from Linda L.
South Bay, CA
10/3/2011
Deeelicious burgers. The pork fries were okay. I thought they'd taste porky since they're deep fried in pork lard, but they don't. They're good and crispy though.
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Review from Catherine J.
San Francisco, CA
2/13/2011
I kind of don't want to Yelp this place because it is super chill and not a complete clusterf&ck, but I've got to give love to a local business. This place has an amazing burger. You can choose between grass fed beef, lamb, or goat OR get all three in one! Okay, a bit more about this burger....a perfect medium rare with amazing pickled zucchini on a yummy brioche bun.
Okay, then there are the fries cooked in lard. Crispy, salty, and amazing.
....and then the salad....the Caesar was also perfect. Lots of garlic with a strong anchovy flavor on big croutons.
Nice local beer/soda/wine selection. -
Review from Stacy G.
8/8/2010
We stopped in the little shop with a cow on the front as our final destination in Point Reyes. First let me say that I have the utmost respect for the food principles and philosophy behind the meat available here.
However, I cannot rate the taste because I found the prices to be exorbitant. Now, I'm willing to pay extra for quality, for free range, for grass fed, etc. But a single whole chicken here costs around $25. Are you kidding me?
Ok, maybe the products here are intended for special occasions and not every day. Still, I can understand why some people roll their eyes at Bay area "elitist" principles, because most of the working class could not afford chicken that costs $25. The quality appears to be high, but accessibility low. Therefore, 3 stars. -
Review from Sugar E.
Alameda, CA
8/27/2010
The prices make my ears bleed, but I have never had better eggs.
Not from right out of the nest at a pal's coop,
not from the farmer's market,
not in my dreams.
I first had them at a friend's house and I could not believe the difference in color; bright, orange-y yolks, and flavor, there is a deep, soft richness. Anyway. When I am in the 'hood, I buck up and pay the nice people for the opportunity to live happily ever after, one meal at a time. -
Review from Wes T.
11/25/2010
Love this place! Support your local agriculture!
We order all our meat from these guys, and it is consistently awesome. Turkeys, roasts, you-name-it. I love that whenever I go in to pick up my meat I always see something delicious in the freezer and then have to pick that up, too.
These guys are on top of it as far as service goes, too. I've never had to wait very long, and they've always been super courteous. -
Review from Alex H.
San Rafael, CA
9/19/2010 1 Check-in Here
BEST HAMBURGER, PERIOD.
On a recent drive thru Point Reyes Station, we stopped at the Marin Sun Farms I just had to stop.
The menu: Beef burger, pork burger, goat burger, lamb burger. What to choose? How about two :-) I split a goat burger and beef burger with a friend. WOW. The best tasting burgers I've ever had, nothing less. The meat tasted, well like fresh yummy cow (and goat). I don't know how else to explain it... I think you just have to try it.
Oh, what else could be better with a burger than fries fried in pork lard? I don't know if lard will be the end of me eventually.. but I think I'm addicted.Listed in: Top Food
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Review from JeFF T.
Fremont, CA
4/8/2008
In my efforts to be a little more progressive and more conscious about the type of foods I eat, I decided on looking into a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. I had heard good things about Marin Sun Farms, as their livestock seemed to be treated with royalty. However, in my quest for knowledge about their program, I was taken aback to the response that I got. My inquiry to David Evans, the owner, went something like this:
'Hi, I'd like to get an idea of what a 6-month, package #3 subscription would typically contain...could you let me know?'
Prior the inquiry, I had scanned through their website, which shows the cuts available, but does not guarantee what you'll receive, especially if the package is on the smaller side. I wanted to know what I could expect from the subscription.
Dave's email response was 'it's on the website.' That was it. No explanation, no link, and what I was seeking, no personal experience. Being that he is the owner, one would think he could simply say you might get some of this or that this time of year, or whatever. His initial response was just very impersonal. I followed up, trying to clarify what I was hoping to hear, but I still seemed to get the blanket response.
I thought one of the reasons to support local CSAs, was that you'd be able to get to know your farmer on a more personal level. I was not getting that sense from his emails. Maybe I had high expectations because everyone loves Marin Sun Farms. Maybe Dave doesn't like email. All I can say is first impressions say a lot.
Next! -
Review from kimberly v.
Berkeley, CA
1/2/2010
Really excellent products. Locally raised meat and eggs, housemade sausage.
This is what all meat and eggs should taste like. We got bacon - small slices, but each slice had three times the flavor of other good bacon. Pork chops that were dense and so juicy we splattered ourselves when we cut into them. Eggs with stand-up orange-y yolks that were dense and buttery.
Not cheap. $8 for the eggs - I blanched. $28/pound for lamb chops, ouch. Still, we should all be eating this kind of food, and hopefully some day we will. -
Review from Reid M.
St. Clair Shores, MI
11/5/2010
Wow ... so that's what a hamburger is supposed to taste like!
As described in other reviews - expect to pay a bit more for your meal. But, realize that you're getting great quality.
We ordered 2 burgers - salads - 1 order fries + 2 beers = $40.
Definitely not for the timid. Still, expect to be surprised! -
Review from graceypoo m.
Boston, MA
4/1/2007 6 photos
I've never felt closer to a true vegetarian until I sank my teeth into the medium-rare flesh of one. The 100% grass-fed cows at Marin Sun Farms have a sweet taste, reminiscent of the grass they eat, but without the bitter after-taste.
I was very lucky (TY.AJ!) to have had a rare opportunity to partake in the annual farm tour that MSF owner David Evans throws for restaurateurs, journalists, ex-vegetarians, and lay-people. MSF uses a remarkable "progressive" and "holistic" approach at farming and ranching, centered on a simple philosophy: R.E.S.P.E.C.T.--
***Respect for the animals, the earth, the local ecosystems (highlighting the importance of one ranch gopher to aerate the soil... how they have factored in losing a couple of chickens to resident predatory birds)
***Free range chickens are allowed to do the vital ecobio-exchange of eating grass, and leaving excrement to further enrich the soil.
***Nothing goes to waste---parts that are not sold for meat are recycled back to the compost pile, which is essential for returning nutrients to the soil.
***the cows roamed freely, are very intelligent, and interacted with their environment. When they saw the tourists, they started running towards us and stopped to check us out. It was definitely amazing. Oh yes, they are not injected with antibiotics and hormones.
MSF practices a close-to-ideal model of agribusiness that uses what nature teaches---harmonious symbiosis of man and nature. Leaving this place, I almost wanted to sing Elton John's Circle of Life, but just the Zulu vocals part.
I ended up buying 3 dozen eggs (tastes wonderful!--the whites are firmer, the yolks are brighter in orange, and does not have that gross "eggy" essence typical of regular eggs), beef jerky, and some beef (that was so freakin' tender after I broiled it to medium-well in my oven).
Driving up to Marin Sun Farms is also a treat---located in Point Reyes Station enroute to Stinson Beach, prepare to enjoy nature (trees, rock formations, natural landscapes)!!!
If you can't go up to Pt. Reyes Station for the drive, I believe MSF has a spot in the Farmer's Market in the Ferry Building on the weekends. Check them out! http://www.yelp.com/bi...
fr-fr-fresh!Listed in: I LAB YU!
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Review from Chie J.
San Francisco, CA
10/30/2007
I was desperately in search for a perfect egg.
When my family from Japan visited me from Japan a few months ago, they asked me: "why eggs in the US have pale yellow yolks? " It hit me. Why? I grew up eating darker yellow/orange colored yolk eggs. I think they are more appetizing and tasty. I used to buy eggs called "Jidorino Tamago (NOT the Nijiya brand)" from Nijiya in Japan center (SF), but they stopped selling them a few months ago. I looked and tried every egg from Trader Joes and Whole Foods as well but I was not successful finding a replacement...
Then I found a web forum talking about orange colored yolked eggs in San Francisco. Many people were talking about Marin Sun Farms. I was so determined to get the perfect eggs but the company website said "when production is at it's lowest point of the year, between October and March. As the days get shorter, egg production falls off. The following stores will likely be without eggs during this off season." I decided to go to Point Reys to pick them up myself. I got into ZipCar and driven over 1 hour to Marin Sun Farm butcher shop.
The eggs were great! It had rich dark yellow yolk. I used the eggs to make slow-cooked eggs. Slow-cooked eggs have been popular for a few years in the bay area. High-end restaurants including Ritz Carlton and French Laundry had it on their menus. In Japan, we call it "Onsen Tamago" which translates into an egg cooked in hot spring. We've been making it for over a few hundred years. Temperature of water supposes to be between 60 to 65 degrees Celsius (140 to 149 degrees Fahrenheit) and eggs are cooked for 35 minutes to 1 hour. The result is unlike any traditionally boiled egg. The egg white becomes slightly translucent with thicker but not hard consistency. The egg yolk becomes custard like rich texture. For slow-cooked egg, I needed perfect tasty fresh eggs. I loved the result using Marin Sun Farm.
I also got 100% grass-fed rib eye steak at the MSF butcher. It was amazing. I am not a big beef eater but I almost finished 1lb steak by my self.
I am a big believer of eating meats which was raised the natural way. I mean natural by animals that eat non processed food and live without being caged. Of course no hormones and no antibiotics. I think they taste way better. On top of that, I feel healthier eating healthy animals. -
Review from T W.
Berkeley, CA
10/18/2007
If you read Michael Pollan's The Omnivore's Dilemma, and, like me, were enthralled by the account of Polyface Farms in Virginia, visit this farm and you'll get an idea of Polyface, in the flesh.
I also got the $7/doz eggs, and... honestly, I don't know how much better they are than these Gold Circle Omega-3 eggs you can get at 1/2 the price. Both are fluffier when beaten, both taste more egg-y, than the standard supposedly organic/veggie/free range eggs you can get at the supermarket. For me the jury's still out, but I still want to investigate further. -
Review from Chona W.
Oakland, CA
10/5/2011
10/5/2011
Marin Sun Farms Rockridge, Oakland, is the best butcher and shop-
We were at first skeptical when Enzo's was replaced by Marin Sun Farms in Rockridge. But over the months we have gotten to know Chuck and his staff and delight in the innovative presentation of an array of cooked products including the weekend specials like pork sandwiches BLTs and our favorite Porchetta which we hope to have back soon.
We also love the fresh farm eggs, chorizos, variety of sausages, excellent bacon which cooks up right, and grass fed beef, lamb, goat, turkey, which we were introduced to here. The pork is first rate.
Chuck is hospitable with a great sense of humor, and a chef at heart, often introducing a new version of an old favorite dish using the Farms' livestock products. He is always trying something new and to seeking to change the shop into something cutting edge and unique. We often stop by when we come through Market Hall to say hello and end up buying something for breakfast or dinner. Marin Sun Farms in Rockridge has become a place to shop!
Chona & Paul W.
Oakland, CA -
Review from N B.
San Francisco, CA
4/16/2006 2 photos
Now THESE are happy cows. No. Really. Why?
Because they're allowed to frolick around in green pastures munching fresh grass (as cows were meant to do) for thier *entire* lives rather than being stuffed in a pen and fed some processed, corn blended chow with who-knows-what in it. None of that Harris Ranch nonsense goes on here.
Owner/Rancher David Evans assured me that not a single grain of corn ever touches their cattles' furry lips. Which is not usually the case with most "grass fed" beef.
Why is this better? It makes for more nutritious beef, less damage to the environment, cattle that have not suffered their entire lives, and better health for farmworkers. Don't believe me? Check out http://www.eatwild.com.
No, they are not actually certified organic--YET, but their practices are in line with the highest organic standards. And to quote David, "It's more important to know where your food comes from, rather than what certifications it has."
Oh, and it tastes great too. Several vendors & restaurants in the area carry their products including Rainbow Grocery (eggs only), Zuni Cafe, Chez Panisse, and Quince! -
Review from Piper E.
Oakland, CA
12/7/2007
These are some happy cows...right up till the knife!
The interesting thing about pigeons is that when you cook them, you call them squab. Perhaps the same thing can be said about cows and beef, or not. In any case, grass-fed beef makes being an omnivore the Cow's moo. And this is the place to get your grass-fed beef. Even though I don't generally like Marin, or, more precisely, people who live in Marin I would highly recommend braving one of the windy hobbity shire drives (perhaps via Lucas Valley road, or Sir F.D.) out to their butcher shop just south of Point Reyes Station on the 1. And since Marin Sun Farms isn't a snooty joint I certainly won't hold using "Marin" in their name against them.
The nice steak cuts (rib-eye, New-York, filet) are pricey if you're used to shopping at Costco for your meat, but once one factors in the elements that are necessary to raise (place trendy adjectives here--pasture raised, local, Slow Food, humane, whatever, etc.) beef then it makes sense. Regardless of the price I am a reasonable individual and feeding grass to cows in a pasture (think pastoral ideal) is reasonable, so I approve of what's going on here, and I am willing to pay for it.
Your best bet to get a deal on the beef is to buy in bulk (I may be reasonable, but I'm also a total cheapskate!, or as I like to say: my doppelganger's the spendthrift!!). Visit their website and check out some of the beef packages. The 8lbs of roasts we got in our last package were 4 2lb boneless chucks--perfect for braising. The meat comes vacuum-sealed and labeled with the cut and poundage. The roasts come string tied, so you don't have to fumble around trying to tie them up for braising. The steaks are a little thin and puny (1/2 lb), but are extraordinary right off the grill, even completely rare. So, upshot: if you don't mind getting a little stew meat with your ribeyes then this is totally the way to do it.
UPDATE: Got another beef package recently and the steaks are super thick and the perfect size. Truly amazing meat. Downside this time--the meat was not labeled with cut or weight. While I can figure out the cut and a close approximation of the weight--I find the labels to be helpful mostly on the roasts (for recipes). Oh, and they raised the package prices (10% increase).
2nd UPDATE (5.21.2008)--Just went on the Farm Tour--It was totally awesome--I would highly recommend checking it out. Dave Evans is super cool and very knowledgeable, and man can he talk, and talk and talk. If you want to learn about where all your food used to come from (i.e., a family farm) come and check it out. Lunch was spectacular--Ribeye and Pork shoulder sandwiches made by the guy who runs a coffee shop in town. Definitely dress warm--we went during the latest hot spell and it was fraking cold as a witch's tit out there! -
Review from Jamie C.
San Francisco, CA
7/31/2006
I couldn't believe how much difference there is between a high quality, pasture raised chicken and the crap you get at Trader Joe's, Safeway, et al. An amazing, awesome, mouth-watering difference. And knowing the chickens are treated humanely and allowed to roam free (cage free and free range doesn't always really mean that. here it does) gets me over the intense guilt I feel over eating a chicken.
Why the four stars, rather than five? No, it's not the cost. Quality isn't cheap (the chicken was about $20 bucks and well worth it), so I don't mind that.
The four stars: it comes with the neck and feet attached!! I know, I know, if you're eating it you should know what you're eating, but enough! I feel guilty enough. Yes, I know I can make stock with the feet but it freaks me out anyway. Oh well, at least the head wasn't still on it.
Wonderful yummy chicken. Can't wait to try their beef.
EDIT: I recently tried their eggs, after Eatwell Farms stopped carrying them at the Farmer's Market. What can I say? I'm hooked. These eggs, like their chickens, taste wonderful. Also an interesting thing, I cook a lot, and I'm usually picking eggshells out of something I'm mixing. Marin Sun Farm's egg shells are crisp, and break neatly in two halves. I have never had to pick eggshell out of anything with these. That has always been a major annoyance with me, so these eggs are a blessing and they make simply luscious scrambled eggs. Six dollars a dozen? Sign me up, you get what you pay for (besides, food prices in this country are kept ridiculously low). -
Review from C W.
San Jose, CA
7/13/2009
These guys are really the only gig in town for meat CSAs. I've been a member for 7 months now and I really like it. I signed up for package 3, which I think I picked because it was the cheapest. At any rate, it's been great getting good, clean meat. I think I end up saving money because I don't buy meat from Whole Foods (which might get wasted) or the farmer's market (which tends to be more expensive).
All of the meat is frozen, so don't be surprised if your meat tastes previously frozen. heh, heh. Also, you're not going to get osso bucco and oxtails and short ribs every month. In fact, I've never seen any of those type of cuts in the box yet. I get mostly beef roasts, beef steaks, a lot of lamb/goat steaks and a heck of a lot of ground meat. I'm on my second pound of ground goat, and I gotta say, I'm thinking about excluding goat. -
Review from Shakeel A.
San Jose, CA
5/16/2011
OK, passed by this place while going to Bodego Bay from San Francisco. Made a couple of turns and then thought, those people outside were really enjoying themselves sitting outside in the sun with cold drinks and food! So I turned around, went inside and ordered. While ordering our food I requested not be served bacon on either burgers and be prepared well done, and then asked for fries. She understood that we did not eat pork and informed us that the fries were made in pig fat. That was very helpful!!! I passed on the fries but I must admit, the burger was the best I have ever had. I mean this was perfectly done, no pink inside, not burned outside just perfect! We got both the beef and the goat. Burgers were as fresh as fresh could be with the appropiate toppings. Cheese was great too. Debating on whether or not to add condiments but had my last bite before I could make my decision. The side salad was fresh and nice too.
At around 12 bucks a burger a little expensive but well worth the price. Will go back again! -
Review from Cyrus A.
Minneapolis, MN
10/25/2009
I like to think I'm pretty particular about what I like in a steak. I am downright obsessive about it. My meat shopping habits are borderline OCD.
That being said, Damn. This place is good. Really good. Best Beef I've ever had, and I don't hand that award out lightly. I capitalized Beef because it is that good. Not cheap, but not a piggy-bank breaker either. No more expensive than a steak dinner at Outback that tastes like a shoe. Of course, you have to cook it yourself but I prefer that than having some moron ruin my tasty meat treats.
To me, the butcher is the candy store of meat, so it took me a minute to soak in my options. I went with a French-Cut ribeye, 1.6 lbs, about 1 & 3/4 inch thick. That ain't no joke, son - you put on your game face with a steak like that.
The Beef itself tasted so distinctive, in a melt-in-your mouth buttery way. I'm not sure if I could get something this good even at my local specialty butchers, but I will be looking.
I just finished off the bone, salting and scarfing it like it was a meat lollipop. What a treat. I will be counting the days until our return to this hall-of-fame place. Highly recommend to give it a try. -
Review from Carl M.
Fairfax, CA
7/10/2011
What a cool place. Did not try the sausages, but had some of their Blue Bottle coffee. The staff was helpful and courteous.Fries sound great! I recommend this place, and will return soon!
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Review from Toni C.
Fremont, CA
8/2/2010
We have been CSA members for 6 months now and just recently renewed our subscription for another year. Prior to joining I was leaning towards omitting goat from our package because I had never eaten it before, let alone cooked it. Now, I would have to say it is one of our favorite types of meat.
Some of the cuts we have recieved include osso bucco, lamb shank, pork leg, and this month an entire 5lb brisket! We subscribe to package #4 so also get different ground meats. While we always get some ground beef, we have also gotten ground lamb, goat, and pork.
We have supplemented our package several times with some of the specials they offer for CSA members and have been really pleased with the overal quality of everything, from the sausages and eggs to the various cuts and ground meat. You can tell the difference in the quality in the appearance and taste of the meat versus what you would get at a regular grocery store.
Danny Kramer has provided excellent customer service, always following up my questions immediately and once, catching an error on my part that would have moved our pick up location across the bay!
I don't feel like we're paying more for our meat than we would at a grocery store, because the quality of the meat and the benefits to our health, the environment, and the animals is well worth it. I am so glad we signed up for their CSA.
