Business & Tech

Cold Weather Affecting Local Restaurant Menus, Farmers Markets

Falls Church Farmer's Market director says crops that came in earlier last year could be later this year because of the ongoing cold weather.

If you’re awaiting Pizzeria Orso to break out their spring menu, you may have to hold off a bit.

With cold weather affecting some crops, Executive Chef Will Artley said a few of his local vendors have already pushed back some of their delivery dates of produce. At least through the second week of April, customers will have to deal with the current menu, Artley said.

“I wanted the spring menu out next week but it will be two weeks out now,” Artley said. “When spring comes, you want to see things like peas and anything bright and green. I never thought I would see a case of peas from a local vendor for $55.”

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February was slightly warmer than usual, but March has been decidedly cold—even the National Park Service had to move its estimated peak cherry blossoms bloom date to April.

With a "normal" winter this year, Falls Church Farmer’s Market Director Howard Herman said things like strawberries, broccoli and cabbage that came in three weeks early will be on time or a little late this year. Herman said last year’s milder winter allowed crops to flourish.

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According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, agriculture is the state’s largest industry with an annual economic impact of $55 billion and it provides more than 357,000 jobs.

Tom Coates, owner of The Local Market said he hasn’t had any big problems getting produce from his vendors so far but won’t know until April if his spring fruits and vegetables will be affected.

“I would imagine there would be some delay with some crops because of the weather,” Coates said.


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