As you may know, Edible Brooklyn is one of over 60 Edible publications to blossom across the nation, each shining a loving light on its region’s local food scene. When we launched this incarnation five years ago, some people asked how a magazine about eating in the concrete jungle would fit into a network that covers foods from fields and forests. Admittedly Edible Brooklyn might seem like the black-dressed sheep of the grassfed family, and I hear some of our covers—a dude in a tanktop and gold chains roasting a goat on a spit, a salt-shaker tattoo—have surprised readers accustomed to more common Edible cover girls: pumpkins ripening in the autumn sun, or a bushel basket of pears so perfectly plump, the mere sight inspires me to both salivate and e-mail my elected representatives about the farm bill.
True, alongside heaping helpings of locavore love, this magazine covers historical food, dedicated DIYers and the authentic eats in our proverbial melting pot. But as you’re about to read, Brooklynites from Grammy-winning divas to hipster hooch-makers relish harvest season. If you do, too, this issue is for you.
We’ve got leads on beautiful, handcrafted mead and the hands-down best grapes you’ve ever tasted; a report on why locavores are hungry for upstate grain; a behind-the-scenes look at one of the borough’s first farm-to-table eateries; and a glittering fish tale about catching your dinner in the East River. And while we believe Brooklyn is one of the best places on earth to sink your teeth into local foods, this issue a guide to getting outta town—to a fall weekend in Long Island’s wine country wonderland.
Our harvest celebration isn’t limited to what’s printed on these pages. September 26 to October 6, we’re joining forces with Edibles statewide and GrowNYC to present Eat Drink Local week, during which dozens of participating chefs, farmers, brewers and vintners will host farm feasts, wine tastings, even an afternoon “Edible Institute” at the New School (details at ediblemanhattan.com). Best of all, we’re throwing a celebratory bash Thursday, October 7 at the Knitting Factory, where we’ll prove beyond a doubt that Brooklynites know how to reap the harvest. See you there.
Ben Sargent trawls the city straits.
