TRAVERSE CITY — Samantha Fall said she fell in love with farming and gardening during her time at Michigan State University.
She moved to northern Michigan in 2014 and operates Timeless Media Productions, a wedding business. Her son wanted a farm, so she started looking for property. In early 2020, she purchased the land for Elderberry Farms Estate.
Fall said they started serving Sunday brunches in the cafe in February. The menu highlights elderberries, something Fall said she has used as a “naturopathic medicine” since 2006 or 2007.
“I researched herbalism,” Fall said. “It’s best to take it [elderberries] as soon as you notice something off. It can help prevent the flu.”
Though most American elderberries are imported from the United Kingdom, Fall said they are “absolutely able to grow it here.” Only the berries are harvested, as the stems and leaves are toxic.
“It’s an up and coming crop,” she said.
The Sunday brunch menu features elderberry waffles, a Monte Cristo sandwich with elderberry preserve and other dishes.
Chef Joshua Boyer works at Peninsula Grill and runs his catering company Fork and Fire. He is also in the kitchen at Elderberry Farms Estate.
He said Fall found him through the Take A Chef website. The two shared ideas for how to use the farm and decided to start with brunch.
Boyer said he was familiar with elderberries and their health benefits prior to working on the farm.
“I’ve been playing around with them,” he said. “We’re open to suggestions for brunches or dinners.”
Boyer said, in addition to brunch, other chefs can rent the kitchen and the farm can be used for private events.
“We’ve got a lot in store,” he said.
Boyer said he specializes in world cuisine. He worked in Traverse City area eateries for about 20 years and then attended culinary school. He moved around the country as a kid and has traveled around the world.
“I’m fascinated with food and culture,” he said.
Fall said they are hoping to add more days to their cafe schedule, work with area farmers, expand their retail market and allow U-Pick later this year.
Currently, some jams, syrup and other elderberry and lavender products are available in the market. She added that they are planning to host a food truck that will serve dinner on site.
Brunch is available from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays at Elderberry Farms Estate, 4702 E. Traverse Highway (M-72) in Traverse City.
To-go brunch orders and walk-ins are accepted. Reservations can be made through elderberryfarmsestate.com/cafe.