A to Z Pizza Farm: Your Ultimate Farm-to-Table Day Trip from the Twin Cities
I’m thrilled to introduce you to a brand new series on the blog: The Minnesota Series! Each month, I’ll be highlighting one of my absolute favorite spots in the vibrant Twin Cities area and its surrounding regions. From cozy coffee shops to thrilling outdoor adventures and incredible dining experiences, this series aims to showcase the very best of Minnesota. It’s high time I give this fantastic state the attention it deserves!
You might find it amusing that the inaugural post of “The Minnesota Series” actually takes us slightly outside of Minnesota’s borders. However, trust me, this destination is so extraordinary, it truly warrants a special mention. Today, we’re venturing to The Pizza Farm, a remarkable culinary gem located just an hour and a half south of the Twin Cities, nestled along the picturesque St. Croix River in beautiful Wisconsin. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an unforgettable experience that I simply can’t wait to share with you. My friends Linley, Brooke, and I recently packed our car with an array of treats and set off for an enchanting afternoon. Let me give you all the delightful details!
Discovering The Pizza Farm: A True Farm-to-Table Experience
The Pizza Farm at A to Z Bakery isn’t your average pizzeria. It’s a seasonal marvel, opening its doors exclusively on Tuesdays from March through October. What makes it truly special is its unwavering commitment to the farm-to-table philosophy. This is a working farm, and the ingredients that grace your pizza are either grown right there on the premises or meticulously sourced from local producers. We’re talking about literal farm-to-oven, then straight to your table freshness. This dedication ensures an unparalleled taste and supports sustainable, local agriculture.
The Unique Dining Experience: What to Expect and What to Bring
Each week, hundreds of eager visitors make the scenic drive to savor these fabulous stone-fired pizzas. The atmosphere here is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s a “bring your own everything” affair, with the exception of the star attraction – the pizza – and a selection of wine and beer available for purchase. Guests arrive prepared for a grand outdoor feast, often laden with coolers packed with gourmet appetizers, fresh salads, decadent desserts, and soft drinks. Some even bring their own portable tables, chairs, blankets, and games to create their perfect picnic spot. This communal spirit of sharing and enjoying food outdoors with loved ones is a huge part of The Pizza Farm’s charm.
Despite the high quality and unique experience, the prices are incredibly reasonable. Pizzas typically range from $25 to $35, offering fantastic value for the exceptional ingredients and craftsmanship. And if you’re looking to complement your meal with a beverage, you’ll be pleased to find a bottle of wine priced around $15, making it an affordable and enjoyable outing for everyone.
A Menu Rooted in Seasonality and Freshness
The pizza menu at A to Z Bakery is a testament to the bounty of the seasons. Since most ingredients are grown directly on the farm, the offerings change frequently, reflecting what’s perfectly ripe and flavorful. This commitment to seasonality means every visit can bring a new delightful surprise. The crusts are consistently thin and delightfully fluffy, providing the perfect canvas for the vibrant and fresh toppings. Each bite is a burst of authentic flavor, a direct result of the farm’s commitment to quality produce.
For those who enjoy meat with their pizza, rest assured, The Pizza Farm caters to all palates. They frequently feature specialty meat pizzas, showcasing locally sourced ingredients. On our last visit, for example, the special was a mouth-watering Short Rib Pizza – a rich, savory option that we simply couldn’t resist. The blend of high-quality meats with the fresh farm vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that truly sets these pizzas apart.
Embracing the Atmosphere: The Waiting Game and Beyond
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting The Pizza Farm twice now, and each time, it’s been a lively affair with a considerable number of people enjoying the farm. As you might expect, the warmer summer months tend to be busier, which can mean slightly longer waits for your delicious pizza. However, this waiting time is never a chore; it’s an integral part of the experience. On our most recent trip, we only waited approximately 25 minutes for our pizzas, which felt incredibly quick given the popularity of the place and the quality of the food. It’s a small price to pay for such a unique culinary adventure.
While we waited, we settled into our chosen spot, uncorked a delicious bottle of Cabernet, and began assembling our pre-prepared salads. The relaxed, convivial atmosphere makes the waiting enjoyable, providing a perfect opportunity to chat, laugh, and soak in the rustic beauty of the farm. We capped off our meal with a delightful dessert of fresh berries and whipped cream – a simple yet perfect ending to a wonderful night of food and company. Between the three of us, we ordered two pizzas. While we certainly could have managed with just one, we were eager to sample as many of the incredible seasonal flavors as possible. And yes, I proudly consumed five pieces of pizza that night – a testament to how utterly delicious they were!
If only I had managed to snap a photo of the menu, I could tell you the exact names of the pizzas we devoured! Alas, the excitement got the better of me. From what I recall, we indulged in a specialty pizza featuring prime rib, another with savory Italian sausage, an “everything” pizza packed with various farm-fresh vegetables, and a unique offering that incorporated seasonal squash. Each one was a masterpiece of flavor, showcasing the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the bakers.
These gorgeous photos, capturing the essence of our visit, were expertly taken by the incredibly talented Brooke Alexandra Photography. It’s truly wonderful to have such talented friends who can immortalize these beautiful moments.
Why The Pizza Farm is a Must-Visit Day Trip from the Twin Cities
For anyone living in or visiting the Twin Cities, The Pizza Farm is an absolutely perfect destination for a unique and memorable outing. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a fun gathering with girlfriends, or a delightful family adventure, this spot offers something special for everyone. While it’s a bit of a drive from the cities, I can wholeheartedly assure you that it is unequivocally worth the journey.
You have the option of driving along either the Wisconsin or Minnesota side of the St. Croix River, both offering breathtaking scenic views that make the travel part of the experience. The drive itself is beautiful, winding through charming country roads, allowing you to relax and enjoy quality time with good company even before you arrive. The serene countryside setting immediately transports you away from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a refreshing escape.
Beyond the incredible food and stunning scenery, the atmosphere at The Pizza Farm is incredibly welcoming. Everyone you encounter, from the dedicated staff working tirelessly to craft the pizzas and manage the farm, to fellow visitors, exudes a friendly and relaxed vibe. It’s a joy to observe the creative picnic spreads that people bring, each unique setup adding to the communal tapestry of the evening. During our visit, we even had the pleasure of setting up right next to some curious cows, adding a whimsical, true-to-Wisconsin touch to our farm experience. This genuine connection to nature and community is what truly elevates The Pizza Farm from just a restaurant to an unforgettable destination.
So, gather your friends or family, pack your favorite picnic essentials (don’t forget that bottle of wine or craft beer if you prefer to bring your own, though their selection is great!), and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey to A to Z Pizza Farm. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that nourishes the soul as much as it delights the taste buds.
Photo Credit: Brooke Alexandra Photography