Restaurant Spotlight: Farm Shed at Downtown Cedar Falls

Farm Shed made its big debut just a week ago on the 20th of June, opening up their doors to the Cedar Valley locale. A new contender rostered into the culinary greats with a hefty promise; To provide the community with a culinary experience that focuses on creating amazing menu selections using only fresh, organic & seasonal local ingredients from local farmers and suppliers.

The venue portrays a modern casual feel with a touch of rustic elegance. Amazing aroma of freshly baked goods brings you back to the nostalgic appeal of grandma’s kitchen. White hue predominates the main dining area with white cupboard and marble laminate table tops completing the look. Taking center stage is an enticing display of freshly baked pastries and luscious desserts. Yet, the permeating contrast of old school rusticity reminisce of deep-seated Iowan roots and that gorgeous old farmhouse feel with painted wooden walls and red brick accents.

Menu presents an intimate selection of farm fresh varieties ranging from all-too-familiar American breakfast staples to an array of International fusion dishes. Make no mistake with an assumption that this is your average breakfast diner, it’s really not. Menu choices are exciting, innovative, and inspiring. It allows guests to take a step outside their culinary comfort zone and indulge in new discoveries.

Seating was somewhat limited with a bit of a wait as expected on a busy opening weekend. Unfortunately, some of their menu items quickly became unavailable because they were out of certain ingredients. But for us, food quality always takes the top priority when it comes to finding that perfect eating spot. We can’t wait to try what they have to offer.

What we tried:

Pork Belly Rice Bowl

My wife chose this dish because she adores eating anything over rice. Top it off with pieces of fatty, delicious pork belly, it does sound like the perfect dish to savor.

First, the rice. Grains were initially toasted with some lime and cilantro giving it that unique texture with a slightly crunchy exterior before it was steamed and cooked with beautiful cuts of pork belly. The texture was unlike anything we’ve had before. Lucky for us, head chef and owner Jenette Weinberger was kind enough to share a glimpse of her cooking artistry. Cuts of pork belly were simply spot on delicious. Tender, juicy, flavorful. It’s like bacon on steroids, but tastes even better. What works wonders is the impeccable marriage of flavors especially with the pickled onions and radishes on the side. The slight acidity and spiciness from the pickled vegetables cuts down the richness of the pork belly, while achieving that perfect balance of saltiness and subtle sweetness. Add that to the already flavorful rice base, simply a delicious dish we truly enjoyed.

Green Eggs & Ham

Not exactly what came out of a Dr. Seuss bestseller, but even he can’t make green eggs and ham taste this good.

What may be wrongly perceived as a plate of fresh arugula salad comes to light with even more layers of deliciousness upon closer inspection. Beautifully toasted artisanal bread layered with prosciutto (Italian dry-cured ham), an over easy egg, generous layer of arugula and topped off with some house-made pesto. Again, the culinary genius lies in how well the flavors and contrasting textures come into play with each bite. The saltiness from the prosciutto, creaminess of the yolk, subtle crunch from fresh arugula and the flavor intensive pesto made with fresh herbs, garlic and Italian olive oil, all playing well in an enticing symphony of flavors. The dish is healthy, fresh, refreshing, and most of all tasted absolutely delicious.

Lemon Pancakes

Every good meal ends with something of a sweeter note. At least that’s what I would like to believe. This time, a delicious take on an All-American staple with fruits, maple syrup and whipped cream.

Ah yes the makings of a classic, elevated with a refreshing kiss of citrus. This menu item was recommended by our server, and we would have to agree that it was quite a treat. Pancakes were nicely done. Light, fluffy, flavorful, and tasted quite nice with farm fresh berries and whipped cream on the side.

Conclusion:

Farm Shed takes pride in serving the Cedar Valley community a taste of down home locally produced ingredients, providing only the freshest, most vibrant offerings that changes with each season. It’s a win-win partnership supporting businesses of local farmers, transforming high quality ingredients into exquisite dining experiences thanks to the culinary genius of Chef Jenette and her team.

Food is served with utmost care and standards that is borderline fine dining in its quality. Watch for new menu offerings that will continue to evolve with the turn of each season. As for Chef Jenette, we applaud your efforts as well as your vision to provide a unique dining experience here at downtown Cedar Falls. We wish you and your team continued success in all your future endeavors.