Making Farm to Table a Priority in Laurens County

Shop Local Series, Part 8

By Brenda Stewart, Publisher Laurens County Buzz

When you dine out at a locally owned restaurant in Laurens County, you’re not just enjoying a meal—you’re supporting the local economy in ways that may not always be immediately obvious. Local restaurants are often the backbone of a community, providing jobs, fostering relationships, and sourcing ingredients that keep money circulating right here at home.

But there’s a twist: it’s not just about where you eat—it’s about how the restaurant sources its food. By asking questions and showing interest in how local a restaurant’s ingredients are, you can make a more meaningful impact on the local economy.

Farm-to-Table: A Growing Trend

In recent years, “farm-to-table” has become a popular buzzword. Restaurants that advertise as farm-to-table often source ingredients from local farms, ensuring that the food you’re eating supports local agriculture and small businesses. But what if the restaurant doesn’t advertise itself this way?

Ask and Show Interest

If a restaurant doesn’t label itself as “farm-to-table,” don’t be afraid to ask! Politely inquire about where their ingredients come from—especially for produce, meat, and dairy. Ask if they source from local farms or vendors. Not only will this help you make an informed choice, but it shows restaurant owners that there’s a demand for locally sourced ingredients, which can encourage them to prioritize buying from local producers.

By simply asking, you’re putting the idea in their minds that the community cares about where their food comes from. Many local restaurants want to support local farms but may not have actively considered it as a selling point. Your inquiry could inspire them to shift their focus toward local sourcing—boosting Laurens County’s agricultural economy in the process.

How It Helps More Than Just the Restaurant

When a restaurant sources locally, the impact extends far beyond the kitchen. The money you spend at that restaurant doesn’t just pay for your meal; it’s helping local farmers, suppliers, and workers. Instead of large corporate food distributors taking a cut, the money stays within the community, fueling other businesses and creating a network of support that grows and strengthens the local economy.

Local restaurants also tend to provide more jobs within the community, from waitstaff to chefs, dishwashers, and management. Supporting them means providing opportunities for your neighbors, friends, and family to thrive.

The Ripple Effect of Dining Local

Even if a restaurant isn’t fully “farm-to-table,” choosing to eat at locally owned establishments instead of national chains has a ripple effect. For example, your meal might include products from local bakeries, small-batch condiment makers, or local cheese producers. Every time you choose a local restaurant, you’re supporting multiple businesses at once. It’s the local economy working in tandem.

By making thoughtful choices about where you dine and taking the extra step to ask where your food comes from, you’re helping keep the money, the jobs, and the pride in Laurens County. You’re not just having dinner—you’re contributing to the community you love.

Next Time You Dine Out, Ask!

So the next time you go out for a meal, whether it’s your favorite place or a new spot you’re trying, ask about where they source their ingredients. Show interest in supporting local restaurants that go the extra mile to connect with local farms and food producers. It’s an easy way to make a big impact.

And who knows? Your question might just spark a positive change that helps Laurens County businesses grow—and might even inspire your friends to ask too!