There really was a farm at one time, farther up the road, which I remember for their enjoyable breakfasts. Thirty-five years later, now much smaller and located just south of Cabrillo College, The Farm still serves an abundant choice of fresh fare, made from scratch, in the middle of a chic boutique. I was surprised at the variety of tasteful gifts, from sweaters and jewelry, to cook books, cards and glassware.
The menu is displayed on chalkboards behind the ordering counter. The list of sandwiches ($5.95 to $7.95) includes many unique and appetizing combinations such as grilled chicken and pear with apricot sauce and sharp cheese, a veggie wrap with house-made hummus and roasted red bell peppers, and grilled eggplant with olive tapenade. They cook with local Glaum Egg Ranch eggs, Diestel turkey, certified organic grass-fed beef, and the fries are hand cut and baked.
Omelets, scrambles, burritos, Benedicts and parfaits are just some of the offerings in the morning ($3.95 to $8.50), and are served until noon during the week and 1 p.m. on weekends.
Side dishes and small plates ($2.75 to $5.95) include vegetarian lasagna, thick vegetable focaccia, twice-baked potatoes, and turkey chili with corn bread. A slice of Quiche ($4.25), whose custard was so moist and creamy, was dotted with meaty mushrooms, bits of spinach and rich Italian blue cheese. I rarely eat pie crust (that girlish figure thing, you know) but the buttery tenderness of the Farm’s dough was irresistible. A steaming cup of split pea soup with ham, reminiscent of my mother’s, held soft carrots and celery.
And don’t forget dessert. Tarts, each a colorful masterpiece of arranged fruit, fat Rice Krispies treats with M&Ms, thick upside down cake piled with pineapple, brownies, and an array of cookies are just a few of the Farm’s creations. | KP
The Farm Bakery Cafe and Gifts, 6790 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 684-0266. Open daily from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Visit thefarmbakerycafe.com.
