As every committed localvore knows, the best way to get fresh local produce (aside from a farmer’s market) is to join a CSA. A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a farm that has decided to sell directly to the public. By investing several hundred dollars in the spring, you can receive deliveries of fresh produce throughout the summer and fall. However, some of us aren’t ready to commit several hundred dollars up front to the cause of fresh produce, or we might not be around in the summers. But we still want to help out local farms, and we cringe a little every time we pick up shallots shipped all the way from Uruguay at Whole Foods.
The solution: Irv and Shelly’s Fresh Picks. For around $20, you can have a box of the freshest local produce available delivered to your door every week. Lately, we’ve been getting local apples, shallots, garlic, squash and some jars of tomato sauce made with local tomatoes. Not only is the produce tasty, but it introduces you to new varieties that you may not have ever had the guts to try. Thanks to Fresh Picks, we’ve tried black radishes, turnips, kohlrabi and sunchokes, all for the first time. Irv and Shelly also send recipes to help get you started. The selection is up to them, but you can request that certain items be excluded from your box. Best of all, if you set up a “standing order,” it is sent automatically every week. Fresh Picks also carries a full line of produce, meat, dairy and prepared foods that you can add to your weekly order.
Thanks, Anthony!

Friday Afternoon Diversion


Thank you! I've been considering a CSA but just couldn't stomach the cost. This is great.
I've become acquainted with Timber Creek Farms Organics from Yorkville, Illinois. They home deliver fresh, organic produce and have a tie-in with another foods supplier for frozen and dairy products (among others).
I love the home delivery. It's been a life (and money) saver for me. No more expensive trips to Whole Foods for my green smoothies and juicing adventures, thank you very much!
Actually, you can order whatever produce you want, provided you spend $35. I enjoy it a lot, and Irv and Shelly are very responsive. The only cost is you lose the individual farmer reputation.
We've had Irv & Shelly's deliver off and on for the past year, and they have been great. Lots of variety, excellent quality, and anytime we have gotten something that was a bit off, they're more than happy to credit.
Plus, now we know what garlic scapes are.