Cow Track Ranch in Nicasio was the host setting for April’s Farm Dinner

Spring weather welcomes the official start of the Farm Dinner season, and no one showcases “field to fork” in the North Bay like Elizabeth Hill at West Marin Food & Farm Tours.

Hill, who single-handedly launched her popular artisan food tour company in 2012, has an entrepreneurial prowess and tireless spirit that fuels her ever-expanding business vision. In addition to themed day trip culinary adventures and weekend retreats, Hill has introduced a series of four-course Farm Dinners held monthly at different host ranches scattered around the West Marin countryside.

Elizabeth Hill treats her guests to a truly memorable evening.

West Marin has a long and vibrant history as a farming community. It is home to a wealth of established, multi-generational agriculture families and has become the heart of a flourishing new artisan food movement. Few settings rival the natural beauty of this area. Located within an hours drive of San Francisco, this scenic region is the perfect destination for those seeking to enjoy the delights of a farm-to-table dinner experience.

An accomplished chef in her own right, Hill is a consummate hostess who treats her guests to thoughtful touches at every turn. She also has the wisdom to surround herself with a first-class team, including fine dining Chef Matt Elias from Saltwater Depot in Inverness, and talented friend Courtney Caldwell who oversees details like place settings, floral arrangements, and event photography.

Hill’s most recent Farm Dinner was held in the rustic refurbished barn at Cow Track Ranch, which is situated in rolling coastal hills just outside the town of Nicasio. Forty guests enjoyed a festive evening of amazing locally sourced food and wine, lively conversation, and the vocal stylings of guitar duo The Old Way. Seated at long, white-linen covered tables decorated with stunning florals, patrons raised their glasses in a toast to new friends as twilight cast its shadow over the barn. Twinkle lights and crystal chandeliers hanging from wooden rafters added a magical quality to the evening ambience.

Stemple Creek Ranch Filet appetizer with Little Wing Farms chickweed & horseradish cream; Heidrun Mead Mojitos in the background

Fresh Spring Pea Soup with Meyer Lemon Cream and Vella Jack Crackers

Grilled Delta Asparagus Salad with Marin Sun Farms bacon & Hands Full Farm eggs

Stemple Creek Ranch Short Ribs with spring vegetable ragout and Rancho Gordo farro

And for dessert: Double 8 Dairy Buffalo Milk Galato with Tomatero Farm Strawberries and Brickmaiden Shortbread Cookies

Hill’s next Dinner On The Farm will take place at Toluma Farms, makers of delicious farmstead goat milk cheeses, on Sunday May 18, 2014 near Tomales. For more information on this and other upcoming Farm Dinners, email elizabeth@foodandfarmtours.com. Seating is limited. Reserve your space today!