On Friday, July 16, Kari and I attended an Outstanding in the Field dinner at Oxbow Farm, which is located about twenty miles east of downtown Seattle in the town of Carnation. This event was met with much anticipation for it was not only our first OITF, but also an occasion to celebrate our wedding anniversary.

At first glance, the $180 per plate price might seem an extravagance, but considering the outdoor setting at Oxbow Farm, the five course meal prepared by chef Matt Dillon and his team from The Corson Building, the four different wines poured by James Mantone of Syncline Wine Cellars, and the community that gathered at the table, it was worth every penny.

Upon arrival, we joined the rest of our hundred plus dinner party for appetizers and wine near the main farm house. After a brief welcome from an OITF representative, the host farmers, Luke Woodward & Adam McCurdy, introduced themselves and provided an overview of the farm. This was then followed by an informative walking tour that helped connect us to some of the food we were going to eat that evening.

Walking Tour at Oxbow Farm

Adam McCurdy Explaining Farming Practices

Our tour eventually led us to the field where a long table was set up, with enough seating for more than one hundred diners. Many guests brought their own plates, as a tradition of contributing something to the meal. Those like us who didn't bring plates were able to choose from a collection the OITF had accumulated over the years.

Dinner Plates Brought By Guests

Besides the delicious food and terrific wines served at this Outstanding in the Field event, it was a real treat to meet and get to know the folks seated next to us. Surprisingly, many were from outside of the state, visiting Seattle as part of their summer vacation. There was something really special about sitting at a long table in a field, celebrating local food and wines with new acquaintances on a warm, sunny summer evening.

The Long Table in the Field

During the main course of our dinner, Janelle Stokesberry came by our section of the table to share more details on the Stokesberry chicken we were enjoying. A little while later, James Mantone arrived to explain the grapes and winemaking that went into producing his Syncline wines. Finally, Matt Dillon paid us a visit during desert to provide insights on the meal.

This was a true farm-to-table experience, with growers, chefs, and winemakers sharing their stories on the meal we were celebrating. I now understand why this dinner event sold out within hours of tickets going on sale. And I can see why many folks from out of town were in attendance, for this dinner offers a terrific way to learn more about a region's local food and wine. I look forward to experiencing a future Outstanding in the Field dinner at another farm in the years ahead.

Related Links
Hip Travel Mama Review - offers an incredible photo essay.
Roost Review - more terrific shots of the event.