Ashland Craft Pumpkin
Nestled in the heart of Oregon's Rogue Valley, Ashland is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, but it's also a hub for culinary delights, with a special fondness for pumpkins. Ashland's craft pumpkin scene is as diverse and creative as the city itself, offering a unique blend of flavors and experiences that are sure to delight any pumpkin enthusiast.
From artisanal pumpkin beers to gourmet pumpkin-infused dishes, Ashland's culinary landscape is painted with the warm hues and comforting scents of this iconic squash. Let's delve into the world of Ashland's craft pumpkin scene, exploring the local breweries, restaurants, and farms that make this city a pumpkin lover's paradise.
Ashland's Craft Breweries: Pumpkin Ales and Lagers
Ashland's craft beer scene is thriving, with several breweries offering unique takes on pumpkin beers during the fall season.
One standout is Plank Town Brewing Company, known for its Pumpkin Face Ale, a spiced pumpkin ale with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The brewery also offers a variety of seasonal pumpkin-inspired dishes, such as their popular pumpkin ravioli.
Plank Town Brewing Company's Pumpkin Face Ale
This rich, amber-hued ale is a perfect balance of pumpkin, spice, and hops, with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel that makes it incredibly drinkable.
Pair it with Plank Town's house-made soft pretzels or their signature mac and cheese for an unforgettable fall experience.
Other Notable Ashland Breweries
For those seeking a more robust pumpkin beer, Creekside Brewing Company offers their Great Pumpkin Imperial Ale, a high-alcohol, full-bodied beer with intense pumpkin and spice flavors.
Meanwhile, Walkabout Brewing presents a unique twist with their Pumpkin Spice Latte Ale, combining the flavors of pumpkin, coffee, and milk sugar for a creamy, coffee-forward take on the classic pumpkin beer.
Pumpkin-Inspired Dishes: Ashland's Gourmet Scene
Ashland's culinary scene is as innovative as its beer scene, with numerous restaurants offering pumpkin-infused dishes that go beyond the typical pumpkin pie.
At the forefront is The Loft, a farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the bounty of the Rogue Valley. Their Pumpkin Gnocchi is a standout dish, featuring house-made gnocchi tossed in a creamy pumpkin sauce with sage and brown butter.
The Loft's Pumpkin Gnocchi
This dish is a testament to The Loft's commitment to local, seasonal ingredients, with the pumpkin sourced from nearby farms.
The gnocchi is light and pillowy, perfectly complementing the rich, velvety sauce, making it a must-try for any pumpkin lover.
Other Ashland Restaurants to Try
For a unique sweet-and-savory experience, try Osteria La Buca's Pumpkin Tortelloni, filled with a creamy pumpkin and ricotta mixture and served with a sage brown butter sauce.
And if you're craving a pumpkin dessert, Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine offers a delightful Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ashland's craft pumpkin scene is a testament to the city's commitment to quality, creativity, and community. Whether you're seeking a unique pumpkin beer, a gourmet pumpkin dish, or a farm-fresh pumpkin to take home, Ashland has something to offer every pumpkin enthusiast. So why not plan a visit this fall and experience the magic of Ashland's craft pumpkin scene for yourself?