Awards

"Finest Arizona Wedding Site" - 2010 Frontdoors News Network

"Best Local Treasure" - 2010 AZCentral.com Best of Awards

"Best Patio Dining" - 2010 AZCentral.com Best of Awards

"Top 10 Dog Friendly Restaurants Nationwide" - Petside.com

"Business That Gets It" - 2010 Social Media AZ SMAZZIE Awards

"Best Patio Dining" - 2008 Phoenix New Times Best of Awards

"Best Picnic Under Pecan Trees" - Arizona Highways Magazine

Our History

The Story of The Farm at South Mountain

Born from an ancient riverbed that blessed the grounds with naturally-rich soil, The Farm’s vision of sustainability was originally conceived by Dwight Heard (benefactor of the Heard Museum) in the early 1920’s. He acquired a large parcel of land and then subdivided the property into two-acre parcels which he sold for the whopping sum of $1,150 with the distinct purpose of promoting self-sufficiency. Heard offered a cow and fifty chickens with each purchase.

In keeping with the early philosophy, the ten acres just south of Southern and 32nd Street was planted with 100 pecan trees, and for over 40 years was nurtured by a retired cattleman by the name of Skeeter Coverdale. Ultimately Skeeter determined it was too much work to care for the trees and harvest the 5,000 pounds of nuts each year. He wanted to move to Punkin Center where he could buy a trailer, "drink beer, swat flies, and tell lies" - so he did!

Today, the owner A. Wayne Smith has preserved the wondrous sense of rural tranquility and vision of sustainability with independently owned businesses that contribute to the cultural, educational, restorative and economic environments that thrive on the historic land. According to Gourmet Magazine, dining beneath the pecan trees at The Farm "... is a spiritual experience for those who journey to this 12-acre organic oasis."