Criswell Farm and Market

Criswell Farm and Market at a Glance

Farmers: Kevin Quigley and Judy Ozer
Where they’re located: Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Website: Criswell Farm and Market
What they grow: Greens, herbs, kale, mulberries, tropical fruits, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, tropical spinach, grown in grow bags
Where they sell: At their farmstand
CSA: No

There’s precious little farmland left even in the western reaches of Broward County, so it’s especially surprising to come across this not-quite-an-acre urban farm in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, footsteps from Broward Boulevard and within earshot of the Brightline/Virgin Trains station. Criswell Farm & Market was started by Kevin Quigley, a Wall Street IT guy who fled Manhattan and learned to farm. Their employees include Judy Ozer. Volunteers help plant, weed and harvest. The farm is lush and well-tended – even in late spring, there were tomatoes still on the vines. Plans are underway to fix up a food truck onsite to serve as a kitchen for smoothies and other farm-to-table fare.

Their philosophy  Kevin: I was told I could make a ton of money! What I found was passion and community – money’s not important. I’m happy! I’ve never enjoyed my work more. Judy: When we grow, we get so excited. It’s so much fun, like having kids – it gives you a happy feeling.

What they grow  Produce and tropical fruits, grown organically in grow bags, including herbs, kale, mulberries, cranberry hibiscus, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, Asian greens, tropical spinach. Fruit trees include mango and bananas. Their market also sells produce from other South Florida farms, and they carry raw honey, preserves, eggs, baked goods, soaps and dog biscuits, all made locally. Big plus: Some of the produce is harvested on the spot for customers so it’s perfectly fresh and unwilted.

What’s next?  Holding classes in growing produce, plus hosting special events, like dinners or parties.

More info Criswell Farm & Market is located at 24 NW 6 Ave., northwest of the Habitat ReStore building. Open year-round Thur.-Sun. 9-4pm.