As summer rolls in, it is prime time to dive into Michigan’s local food and drink scene. And guess what? Taste the Local Difference (TLD) just dropped its 20th Anniversary Local Food Guide, an 80-page magazine celebrating all the tasty goodness Michigan has to offer — thanks to its local farms and food businesses.
“This year marks the 20th anniversary of Taste the Local Difference’s Local Food Guide publication. What started as a small, regionally focused publication in Northwest Michigan has become a statewide resource for all local food seekers,” said Taste the Local Difference CEO Tricia Phelps. “The local food movement in Michigan continues to evolve and we’re thrilled to be part of it.”
Within the pages of this year’s guide, readers will find stories showcasing all our state has to offer in addition to eight Michigan-centric recipes, a seasonal storage guide and hyper-local features like a conversation with Heather Leach of Harrand Hill Farm and Market about supporting native pollinators. The 2024 Local Food Guide lists farms and food businesses across the entire state and is separated into seven regions, making it easy to find local food sources for residents and visitors alike. Throughout the guide, QR codes allow the reader to jump to Taste the Local Difference’s searchable digital directory for market hours, CSA information and more.
From the Keweenaw Peninsula to Detroit, the Local Food Guide is freely distributed at farmers markets, cafés, libraries, welcome centers and more. Find Taste the Local Difference at Michigan markets this summer for Guide Release Pop-ups where anyone can pick up their free copy. Northwest Michiganders can join TLD at the Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market on Saturday, June 15. For those who would rather have the guide delivered to their door, order online.
It’s the perfect opportunity to meet local food producers, chat with the TLD crew and connect with other food lovers in your area. Be sure to check TLD’s blog for additional pop-up dates and times.
As summer approaches, seize the opportunity to venture out and experience the richness of our community’s local food offerings.