Farm-to-table cooking isn't just for the professionals! In the last few years, farm-to-table dining has become more popular as a way to reduce carbon emissions and support local farmers. However, you don't have to go to a restaurant to participate in this trend anymore! Fort Collins is home to Farm Fusion, a teaching kitchen that teaches adults and children alike on where food comes from and how to take farm fresh food ingredients, including eggs, milk, and vegetables, and create something incredible. Their classes range from making cheese from scratch and Sourdough 101 to sushi and a Date Night-Italian Romance.

We spoke with Dawn Broeder, owner and farm-to-table artist and chef, to learn more about her Fort Collins favorites and what makes Farm Fusion unique!

What do you love about Fort Collins? 

I love that Fort Collins has so much to offer, while maintaining a smaller feel. I can’t imagine living anywhere other than Fort Collins. It has beautiful views of the mountains; many trails to hike, bike, walk, run; country living and city living; close to Denver without being too close; many great breweries, restaurants, etc; and home to many amazing small businesses.

Owner Dawn in Cowboy Hat pointing to different cooking ingredients

What are your top 3 favorite activities to do in Fort Collins?

  1. Visit the breweries and local restaurants

  2. Anything outdoors, like paddleboarding, hiking, fishing, running, or playing softball

  3. Visit the Farmer's Markets and small farm stands

 

What "can't miss" activity/restaurant/place would you tell a first-time visitor to go?

There are too many to choose just one!

What makes Farm Fusion unique?

At Farm Fusion, we offer a truly unique culinary experience that blends hands-on cooking classes with farm-to-table principles. What sets us apart is our commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, often harvested directly from our own farm. Our classes not only teach essential cooking skills but also emphasize the importance of sustainability and healthy eating. Whether it's catching fish from our lake, picking vegetables from our garden, or utilizing our farm's livestock, participants engage with every step of the food preparation process. This holistic approach provides a deeper connection to the food we eat and enriches the learning experience in ways traditional cooking classes can't match.

Four people pounding chicken breasts

What is the story behind how Farm Fusion got its start?

My business is situated in the heart of the ranch and farm where I grew up. This land, homesteaded by my dad, has a rich history as a dairy farm, cattle ranch, and alfalfa and corn farm. Today, my brother manages the farming, and my dad oversees the ranching. Two of my sons also live on the property—one as our diesel mechanic and the other sharing our passion for gardening and cooking. My oldest son excels as our expert chicken farmer, and my niece assists me in the kitchen during classes. It is truly a family-run operation across the entire land. My husband is my valued partner in every aspect of this business. He is the brains and labor behind our beautiful garden, and he helps me with any business needs I have while also working full-time off the property.

I wanted to build a barn at the center of our property, where the views are unparalleled. This location allows me to witness all the farm and ranch activities, and our guests get to enjoy this vibrant atmosphere too. I designed my kitchen at the front of the barn with large windows, ensuring everyone can see the farm's daily happenings.

My goal is to connect local farmers, including our own family, with the foodie community. Through our classes, we provide an educational and enjoyable experience, highlighting the importance of local food. Our journey began with a food truck, which I used to park in the barn, utilizing the kitchen for preparation and cleaning. I sold the food truck in 2018 when I became the Corporate Chef for the commercial kitchen industry. Being a Corporate Chef expanded my culinary knowledge, working with many different talented chefs across the United States and in Europe, and it broadened my knowledge of kitchen equipment.

Three people with their charcuterie board finished and ready to eat!

What do you want visitors to experience at Farm Fusion?

At Farm Fusion, we aim to create an immersive and educational experience that inspires a love for cooking and an appreciation for fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. We want our visitors to leave with new culinary skills, a greater understanding of sustainable food practices, and fond memories of their time spent on our beautiful farm. From the moment they step onto our grounds, we want them to feel connected to the land and the food they prepare. Our goal is for each visitor to experience the joy of creating delicious, wholesome meals in a supportive and engaging environment, and to carry that inspiration into their everyday lives.

(Photos courtesy of Farm Fusion)

Farm Fusion

Business Hours: Classes are held Tuesday through Sunday, with the schedule varying weekly
Address: 2627 Cattlemans Road, Fort Collins, CO
Phone: (970) 219-7711
Email: farmfusion@yahoo.com
Website: https://www.farmfusion.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmfusioninthekitchen/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmfusion22/