FARMERS: Johann Smit

LOCATION: San Leandro, Ca

CONTACT:

‍ ‍ Website: Hidden Star Orchards

GROW/SELL: Apples, Cider, Juice, Hard Cider & more

WHEN: Sunday & Wednesday, year-round

Hidden Star Orchards has been an integral part of the food community in the San Francisco Bay Area for more than 20 years. With a unique mix of talents owners Johann and Wendy collaborate to bring their fruit grown in the Sierra Nevada foothills to Bay Area farmers' markets, restaurants and independent grocery stores. Apples, cherries, blueberries and pomegranates are the highlighted varieties.

In addition to fresh fruit Hidden Star Orchards' commitment to a zero-waste philosophy has led to the development of some very tasty fruit products. These include apple butter,  applesauces, fruit extracts and most recently craft hard apple ciders.

Over the years Hidden Star Orchards has expanded business to include an urban agricultural hub in San Leandro, CA and a family friendly destination point in Camino, CA also known as Apple Hill.

Operations in San Leandro include cold storage for fresh and frozen fruit and a commercial kitchen and cidery where fruit products are made.