Paradise Farms

Stayed here for a long weekend, at the Zen Bungalow. Goal was to relax, disconnect, and be around nature. Easily achieved.
The grounds are absolutely gorgeous. Stepping out onto the porch, the view was phenomenal: lush, verdant landscape of fruit trees, herb beds, tall grasses, flowers. The natural pool area was beautiful too, though we didn’t spend too much time there.
Ernest took awesome care of us. Breakfasts were delicious and filled with interesting fresh fruits and edible flowers.
Only downside was the short walk across the farm to the bathroom. But it also kind of added to the rustic appeal. Oh, and mosquitoes. Lots of those. Wear close-​toed shoes or pay for days.
Conveniently located; very close to the Everglades.

This is a review of the B&B only and not the chef dinners they regularly have.
All and all Paradise Farms is nice. We stayed in the Guest House.
In general I would say the facilities leave a little to be desired given the price point. It’s certainly a situation where a lot of people would be really disappointed with the facilities and not happy with their stay. We are generally pretty easy going and overall weren’t there to spend any time in our room or on the grounds so it wasn’t a huge deal for us. The décor in the Guest House is dated. The bed is pretty old and only a double. The screened in porch had several holes in it. Not sure how that would work out if it was really buggy. There is also no A/​C. Which is fine with us but might not be for others.
The breakfast we had was great. The fruit was tasty and it was nice to eat out on the farm.
The location is also nice. It’s 15 mins or so to the gate of Everglades National Park. It’s about 10 mins. further to Biscayne Bay. There are several fruit stands in the area as well that are worth checking out.
If their price point was $ 50 cheaper per night they would have gotten 5-​stars. However, when you are charging $ 180 a night for a room there are certain standards of quality that should be met. Currently Paradise Farms is falling a little short of where they should be in that regard.

For the birthday I wanted to do something different than going to another trendy resteraunt in South beach or Wynwood so I asked my hubby to book us for «dinner in paradise». It is a Chef dinner series hosted at paradise Farms. The drive from South Beach was not bad at all, about an hour on a Sunday. We got there early for the tour of the farm which is interesting to pick edible flowers and berries. Definately bring bug spray and ladies, wear flat shoes. We met some new friends and interesting people at the dinner table. Had amazing new wines and delish food by 3 different chefs from Miami! We are looking fwd to going back next season and staying overnight!

This is something I had been wanting to do for my husband for a while. he loves the outdoors and nature and farm life, etc. I much prefer a 5 star hotel and the spa life but I like to make his birthday special and all about HIM!
so I booked a 1 night staycation at paradise farms, zen bungalow (note there is not bathroom attached, its a short walk away and very clean!). I knew what to expect bc the website is pretty thorough, but upon arrival I thought to myself, omg what have I gotten myself into.
the grounds are… well, uh. a working farm. lots of trees, lots of grass and lots of bugs. the farm is really cool and totally unique for south florida. we basically had the place to ourselves as there was only one other couple staying there and they were in the main house.
we got the bikes and rode around the fields. i wasn’t willing to bike all the way over to schneblys in the darkness of a homestead night, so we opted to drive over to «downtown» for dinner. we considered getting delivery but this farm doesn’t allow any meat products as the owner is a strict vegan, and we didn’t want to disrespect her beliefs so we went out instead.
breakfast was so nice. we had fresh fruits, yogurt and granola and she even brought us some local honey. the coffee was delicious. and we had a beautiful peaceful view of the natural swimming pool.
although this isn’t my cup of tea, I could appreciate something so cool and off the beaten path. with some minor renovations and lots of tlc this place has the potential to truly be something magical.

My wife surprised me with a staycation for an early bday gift. We arrived at the grounds and got a quick tour of the facilities, however not much was explained as to what goes on here. The cabin was nice, but the screens had wholes in them allowing small critters (spiders and lizards) to enter and make a home. We did enjoy the short bike ride around the grounds and I really enjoyed the outdoor shower. Breakfast was fresh and in a beautiful setting and picking fresh star fruit from the tree was a real treat.

A hidden gem! Close to the Everglades. Friendly staff and peaceful atmosphere where anyone can reconnect to nature.

There is something to be said for exploring Paradise.
Although I’d heard the accolades for quite some time, it took me far longer than it should have to make my way to Paradise Farms. I went for one of their brunches, which I made sure to book in advance on their website. It was fairly easy to reserve, and they sent me a confirmation, as well as directions and helpful suggestions, like that ladies should probably bring flats for the tour. The brunches are only offered about 6 times a year, and they can fill up quickly, so if you’re interested be sure to plan ahead.
Upon arriving on the grounds, we followed a bright tree-​lined path to a clearing where we met with the owner, Gabriele. After checking in, we were offered some flavored teas, and an assortment of hummus bowls and crackers. Not wanting to fill up too much, we tried to restrain ourselves, and instead explored the herb beds around the fountain while we waited for the tour to begin. Later we learned that each seed is planted by hand, and that they are lovingly tended to without machinery, to produce the optimal results.
After the rest of the group arrived, Gabriele led us around the grounds, telling us about their history, and giving tidbits on the many species of vegetation they produce. We were allowed to sample a range of edible flowers, and we got to enjoy the scent of fresh herbs as we strolled past fruit trees and planters. The mushroom laboratory we were informed, is a sterile environment, with each strain being specifically tended to. It was interesting to learn, for example, that using coffee grounds adds distinctive flavor to one variety.
After learning about the natural side of the edibles on the farm, we also learned more about the spiritual area as we were given a thorough explanation on the Native American sweat lodge. Then, since we had a few minutes before brunch, she took us to her home and showed us the natural pool. It was fascinating to explore an entire compound where everything is so in tune with nature. Brunch itself was held in the gazebo, and we were lucky enough to have chef Julie Frans of Essensia preparing the meal. Unlimited mimosas starting the morning off nicely, with fresh squeezed juice and local Schnebly sparkling Passion wine. We were told everything used was grown on the farm, and it definitely came through in the freshness of the cuisine.
The first course of yogurt with honey, granola, carambola, and key lime, was surprisingly complex. The granola provided a perfect contrast to offset the silky yogurt, and the fruits added a pleasing freshness. The rest of the entrees were served family style, starting with a kale salad with cherry tomatoes, edible flowers, marcona almonds, and a yogurt-​apple cider vinaigrette. Next up, Teena’s Pride sliced heirloom tomatoes, with a unique pesto. Everything was so vibrant, ripe, and absolutely delectable. After these two, we were brought polenta triangles with sauteed oyster mushrooms, leeks and cuban oregano, and a wonderful roasted vegetable frittata with eggplant, spinach, onions, and squash blossoms. Although I was so full at this point I didn’t think I could eat another bite, I somehow managed to inhale the mamay pudding with whipped cream and candied pumpkin seeds for dessert. It was just that fabulous.
The service was exceptional, the food some of the best, and freshest, morning fare I’ve ever enjoyed, and the grounds were spectacular. As a serious carnivore, I was unprepared for how innovative and flavorful a full vegetarian meal could be. Additionally, I was so impressed with the whole experience that I’m already planning my return trip, this time possibly for one of their rotating-​chef dinner series.
I’d highly recommend partaking in one of Paradise Farms many offerings. This magical oasis feels like a world away from the city’s hustle and bustle, and presents a sublime opportunity to enjoy a more natural way of living and dining.

We initially booked the Bunkhouse but decided to take the Guesthouse instead because our vacation started with the flu! We needed a private bath and comfortable setting to heal. The owner of the farm was very flexible and her hospitality was amazing. She let us take the Guest house for a discount due to our situation and immediately gave my wife tea for healing and shown compassion. We loved the Guesthouse energy and vibe. It had a private bath, huge screened in porch with comfy chairs and a frig. Steps out the back was a natural pool with the sound of a waterfall. Butterflies and dragonflies swooped around the pool and watching the colorful birds was mesmerizing. We loved our stay and definitely recommend it to everyone who loves nature and organic food.