Shelton: Your Source for the Best Thanksgiving Meal

(SHELTON) — The holiday season is right around the corner as plans to bring together friends and family over delicious food begin to unfold. Being one of my favorite times of the year, Rep. Ben McGorty (R-122) and I know how hard many of us work to provide that special meal, which is why we believe it is important to share how our very own small business community of Shelton, CT can provide that familiar feast while also upholding exceptional quality.

Setting the table with only the freshest and best tasting ingredients is a common goal in both of our family celebrations, which is why we both agree there’s no better place to source your Thanksgiving meals than Shelton! That’s why Ben and I look forward to sharing some of our favorite small businesses to visit and support for all your favorite traditional treats.

Our first stop is at the family-owned Laurel Glen Farm at 247 Waverly Rd, which grows just about every fruit and vegetable you can think of! Featured recently in our “Showcase Shelton” series on Facebook, the Laurel Glen Farm has been a notable and reliable source of farm fresh produce for over a century. This year, consider making Laurel Glen a part of your holiday traditions with better quality ingredients all while supporting a local business.

With the side dishes covered, you may be wondering where to get something to drink? Our recommendation is Jones Family Farms, where at their Homestead Farm at 606 Walnut Tree Hill Rd, you can find some of the best local wines. The wide array of rich and robust wines are the best ways to compliment your Thanksgiving meal this November. Aside from their wines, Jones Farms are also known for their variety of goods ranging from all types of produce to even Christmas trees (especially for those who like to start celebrating early like me).

However, no Thanksgiving in the Perillo or McGorty household is complete without the turkey, which we both know can only be found at Stone Gardens Farm at 83 Saw Mill City Rd. Also known as one of the largest vegetable growers in Fairfield County, Stone Gardens provides a balanced selection of meats and produce that is guaranteed to alleviate the stress of last-minute food shopping, even after the holidays.

Did you save room for dessert? If so, don’t forget to also visit Beardsley Cider Mill & Orchard at 278 Leavenworth Rd for the most delectable cider doughnuts and Thanksgiving pies! With over 10 types of pies to choose from, alongside fruit breads, scones, pumpkin cheesecake, and cookies, Beardsley Cider Mill is the one-stop dessert destination for the holidays.

With so many fantastic family-owned small businesses to consider, the most important aspect is that we support our local growers and markets especially with Small Business Saturday approaching on November 26^th. Ben and I know that traditions are what make the holiday season special, and there are several small businesses that have traditionally served Shelton residents for decades.

Therefore, Ben and I wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving and holiday season and hope that you consider supporting those who have served us for generations! As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to Ben at Ben.McGorty@cga.ct.gov or myself at Jason.Perillo@cga.ct.gov.