K's Coffee

Savoring the Slow Brew: A Local Love Story with KS Coffee
Waitsfield, Vermont

FREE COFFEE TASTING WITH KAREN THIS SATURDAY, 8-11:30AM!

There’s a quiet kind of magic that happens when passion meets purpose — and you’ll find it in every bag of KS Coffee.

Tucked in the scenic Mad River Valley, KS Coffee is more than just a small-batch roastery. It’s the heartfelt creation of Karen, a one-woman show who believes coffee should be approachable, comforting, and full of joy. For her, roasting coffee isn’t just about flavor — it’s about connection. It’s about creating something beautiful from the inside out and offering it up as a small daily ritual that makes life a little sweeter.

Roasted with Care, Right Here in Waitsfield

Every bean at KS Coffee is roasted right here in Waitsfield, Vermont. Karen’s operation is small on purpose — she hand-selects her beans, roasts in micro batches, and always keeps quality front and center. That means no mass production, no shortcuts, and no pretentious jargon — just really good coffee from someone who cares.

Whether you prefer a mellow medium roast, a rich dark roast, or something in between, each variety is roasted to bring out the best in every bean. Her roasts are balanced and flavorful, smooth and satisfying — the kind of coffee that makes you pause and enjoy the moment.

From Ritual to Relationship

What sets KS Coffee apart is Karen herself. She's not just a roaster — she’s a community-builder. Her warmth, thoughtfulness, and creativity come through in everything she does, from the hand-stamped labels on each bag to her joyful, down-to-earth presence at local markets and pop-ups.

KS Coffee isn’t about being fancy — it’s about being real. Karen’s mission is to make great coffee accessible and inviting, without ego or overwhelm. She’s here for the curious sipper and the devoted daily drinker alike, creating space for everyone to enjoy the ritual of a good cup.

A Few Reasons We Love KS Coffee:

• Woman-Owned & Operated: Karen is a powerhouse — blending artistry, business savvy, and heart in equal measure.

• Locally Roasted: You can taste the difference. Each bag is as fresh as it gets.

• Micro-Batch Quality: Small-scale roasting means exceptional attention to detail and flavor.

• Rooted in Community: From her presence at local events to collaborations with other makers, Kristin shows up for the Mad River Valley — and we love her for it.

Find Your Favorite Roast

KS Coffee is proudly stocked on our shelves, ready for you to discover. Whether you’re gifting it to a friend or brewing it at home for your morning ritual, KS Coffee is a reminder that good things take time — and that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most meaningful.

So come find your favorite roast. Savor the slow mornings. And take comfort in the knowledge that your coffee was roasted with love, just down the road.

To learn more about KS Coffee or follow along on Karen’s journey, visit ks.coffee or follow her on Instagram at @kscoffeevt.

Tree Heat Maple

Sap, Fire, and Family: The Story of Tree Heat Maple
Bristol, Vermont

TASTING TODAY AT THE MARKET!! 5-7 PM. IT’S FREE!

There’s something timeless about Vermont maple syrup — the way it’s crafted, shared, and passed down. And at Tree Heat Maple in Fayston, the tradition is alive and well, but with a twist that’s equal parts inventive and heartfelt.

At its core, Tree Heat Maple is a family-run sugaring operation nestled in the Mad River Valley. But what sets them apart is the way they do it — with firewood instead of fossil fuels, a deep reverence for the land, and a commitment to sustainability that makes their syrup taste even sweeter.

Wood-Fired Goodness, Straight from the Source

While many sugaring operations have transitioned to oil-fired evaporators, Tree Heat Maple stays rooted in tradition — using locally harvested firewood to boil down their sap. That extra care (and the labor it takes) adds not just to the syrup’s flavor, but to the integrity behind it.

This process gives the syrup a depth and richness that stands out — slightly smoky, deeply caramelized, and undeniably Vermont. It’s a flavor you remember, not just for the taste, but for the story behind it.

Family Craft, Modern Heart

Tree Heat Maple is owned by Noah and Maggie, who bring both a love for the land and a strong entrepreneurial spirit to their work. They’re raising their family alongside their sugaring operation — blending old-world methods with a fresh, intentional approach to small-scale farming.

You’ll often find them tapping trees by hand, stacking cords of wood, or bottling syrup in their cozy, sunlit sugarhouse — always with little ones and community helpers nearby. This is truly maple with a soul.

Why We Love Tree Heat Maple:

• Sustainably Wood-Fired: Their syrup is boiled using local firewood — never fossil fuels.

• Family-Owned & Operated: Every bottle supports a hardworking family rooted in the Mad River Valley.

• Unique Flavor Profile: The wood-fired process creates a deeply rich, unforgettable syrup.

• Local Collaboration: They work with neighbors and other local makers to support a thriving food culture in Vermont.

A Taste of Tradition, Evolved

We’re proud to carry Tree Heat Maple syrup on our shelves — not just because it’s delicious (holy smokes, it is!), but because it’s made with intention, community, and care. Whether you’re pouring it on pancakes, mixing a great cocktail, gifting it to someone special, or simply savoring it by the spoonful, it’s the kind of product that reminds you where you come from — and what truly matters.

Stop by and grab a bottle from the market. It’s maple syrup the old way, with an added kick. ;)

Learn more about Tree Heat Maple at treeheatmaple.com or follow along behind the scenes on Instagram: @treeheatmaple.

Neill Farm

Neill Farm: A Legacy of Resilience, Community, and Farm-to-Table Innovation

Nestled in the heart of Waitsfield, Vermont, Neill Farm has long stood as a living testament to the agricultural heritage of the Mad River Valley. This multigenerational farm, steeped in tradition yet forward-looking, connects deeply with the community—through trail stewardship, innovation, and a strong commitment to local food systems.

What Makes Neill Farm Unique

• Rooted in Valley History
  For decades, the Neill family has farmed this land, weathering the same shifts—like the mid-century decline in dairy—that shaped the landscape of the Mad River Valley. Their presence is woven into the valley’s identity.

Why We Love Them

• Community Champions
  The Neill family has been honored by the Mad River Valley community—most notably through the 23rd annual Mad Dash, dedicated to them and played a central role in creating and protecting the community path.

• Trail & Land Stewardship
  In the early 1990s, Elwin was instrumental in establishing the Mad River Path, collaborating with local organizations to develop a vital greenway for public use.

• Strength in Adversity
  After a devastating barn loss in 2018 (from a microburst), Neill Farm not only rebuilt but also continued to evolve—creating The Feedlot and embracing agritourism, maintaining momentum and optimism.

• Championing Local Food Systems
  With a farm stand offering beef, pork, eggs, sweet corn, pumpkins, and squash, plus partnerships like Wilcox Ice Cream and Babette’s Table hot dogs, they support neighboring farms and foster a truly local food economy.

Why Neill Farm Matters

• Living History
  They embody the agricultural evolution of the Mad River Valley—from hill farming to dairy, diversification, and agritourism—while preserving the legacy and landscape.

• Active Community Engagement
  Through trail creation, cultural events, farm stands, and food outreach, Neill Farm is woven into the fabric of Waitsfield. They’re collaborators—not just operators.

• Model of Sustainable Change
  Still producing food, still innovating, still supporting local partners—their story offers a blueprint for resilient, place-based farming.

Visiting Neill Farm

• Pick up seasonal produce and farm-fresh goods at their stand on North Road—everything from meats and eggs to sweet corn and squash.

• Walk and reflect on trails they helped build, such as parts of the Mad River Path tied directly to their land stewardship.

Neill Farm isn’t just a farm—it’s a foundation of heritage, community, and innovation. Whether you’re buying products from directly from their farm or enjoying the beauty of the Mad River Path, you’re participating in a legacy that’s proudly rooted in place, perseverance, and neighborly love.

5th Quarter Butchery

Honoring the Whole Animal, Vermont Style

At our market, we take pride in featuring artisans who not only provide exceptional products but also embody values of sustainability, community, and craftsmanship. One such standout is 5th Quarter Butcher Shop, a gem nestled in the heart of Waitsfield, Vermont.

The Philosophy Behind the Name

The term "fifth quarter" refers to the parts of the animal beyond the traditional four quarters—think offal, bones, and other often-overlooked cuts. Embracing the whole animal is central to 5th Quarter's mission, ensuring that nothing goes to waste and every part is honored.

Meet the Butcher: Josh Turka

Founded by Josh Turka, 5th Quarter is the culmination of years of dedication to the craft of butchery. Josh's journey began with a passion for sustainable food systems and a desire to reconnect people with the sources of their food. His expertise and commitment have made 5th Quarter a trusted name among chefs and home cooks alike.

“ Josh Turka is your favorite chef's favorite butcher. Since he opened 5th Quarter inside Waitsfield's Mad River Taste Place in late 2022, Turka's rillettes, pâté, knockwurst, hot dogs and pastrami have become a not-so-secret handshake of the coolest restaurants in Vermont. If 5th Quarter is on the menu, it's gonna be good.

“With a background working at high-profile restaurants in Boston before moving into butchery and charcuterie production, Turka speaks chef, and he loves to collaborate with them.” - seven days article

Sourcing Locally, Supporting Community

All meats at 5th Quarter are sourced from small Vermont farms that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. By partnering directly with local farmers, Josh ensures transparency, quality, and a reduced carbon footprint. This commitment not only supports the local economy but also guarantees that customers receive the freshest, most responsibly raised meats available.

Craftsmanship in Every Cut

At 5th Quarter, butchery is both an art and a science. The shop specializes in whole-animal butchery, offering a range of products from traditional cuts to house-made sausages and charcuterie. Each item reflects meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for the animal.

Educating and Engaging

Beyond providing quality meats, 5th Quarter is dedicated to educating the community about sustainable practices and the importance of whole-animal utilization. Through workshops, tastings, and collaborations, Josh fosters a deeper understanding of food systems and encourages mindful consumption.

Culinary Inspiration

5th Quarter's offerings are a favorite among Vermont's culinary professionals. Chefs appreciate the quality and versatility of the products, incorporating them into menus that celebrate local flavors. For home cooks, the shop provides both inspiration and the ingredients needed to create memorable meals.

Join the Meat Club

For those looking to regularly enjoy 5th Quarter's products, the Meat Club offers a subscription service featuring a rotating selection of meats and specialties. It's a convenient way to explore new cuts and support sustainable practices.

Find 5th Quarter at Our Market

We're thrilled to regularly feature 5th Quarter Maple bacon, Pancetta, Sage Breakfast Sausage, Lawson's Beer Brats, Nonna's Italian Sausage in our meat section. Their dedication to quality, sustainability, and community aligns perfectly with our values. Next time you visit, be sure to explore their offerings and experience the difference that mindful butchery makes.