Florida

Florida, known as the “Sunshine State,” offers more than just beautiful beaches and warm weather—it’s also a hub for diverse agricultural products, especially citrus. The state’s fertile soil and tropical climate make it an ideal place to grow a wide range of fresh produce, from oranges and grapefruits to strawberries and tomatoes. Florida’s food scene celebrates its agricultural diversity, offering fresh, locally grown foods through vibrant farmers’ markets, pick-your-own farms, and farm-to-table restaurants.

Citrus is synonymous with Florida, and the state is one of the largest producers of oranges in the country. Indian River County is especially famous for its high-quality oranges and grapefruits, which are shipped across the world. Visitors to Florida can tour citrus groves, enjoy fresh-squeezed orange juice, and pick their own fruit in orchards like Showcase of Citrus in Clermont or Dooley Groves in Ruskin. The state’s citrus season, which runs from October to June, offers endless opportunities to sample some of the freshest fruit available.

Beyond citrus, Florida is also known for its strawberry farms, especially around the Plant City area, where the annual Florida Strawberry Festival draws thousands of visitors each spring. Farms like Parkesdale Farm Market and Fancy Farms allow visitors to pick their own strawberries, and markets across the state sell fresh berries, jams, and strawberry shortcake. Florida’s strawberry season runs from December to April, offering a burst of sweetness during the cooler months.

Florida’s vibrant farmers’ markets provide a year-round bounty of fresh, locally grown produce. The Winter Park Farmers Market near Orlando and the Sarasota Farmers Market are two of the state’s most popular, offering a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, and artisanal goods. From heirloom tomatoes to tropical fruits like papayas and pineapples, Florida’s markets are a celebration of the state’s agricultural diversity.

Farm-to-table dining is flourishing in Florida, with restaurants across the state incorporating fresh, local ingredients into their menus. Cities like Miami, Tampa, and St. Augustine are known for their innovative chefs who create dishes that highlight the best of Florida’s produce and seafood. Whether it’s a salad made with fresh greens and avocados or a seafood dish featuring Florida’s famous shrimp, farm-to-table dining offers an authentic taste of the state’s natural bounty.

Florida’s proximity to the ocean also makes it a prime location for fresh seafood. Visitors to the Florida Keys, St. Petersburg, and Destin can enjoy locally caught fish, shrimp, and stone crab, often paired with fresh, locally grown produce. The combination of fresh seafood and farm-fresh ingredients makes Florida a food lover’s paradise.

Whether you’re picking fresh oranges, enjoying strawberries at a festival, or dining at a farm-to-table restaurant, Florida’s food scene is a reflection of the state’s agricultural richness. From citrus groves to farmers’ markets, Florida offers a true taste of the Sunshine State.