News Summary
Melissa Smith and Monte Harhouri are realizing their dream of a farm-to-table business in Norway, Maine. Transitioning from city life, the couple combines culinary skills and entrepreneurship to create culinary events and wellness retreats, emphasizing fresh, local food.
Couple Fulfills Dream of Farm-to-Table Business in Norway, Maine
In a lovely twist of fate, a couple has turned the pages of their lives from the hustle and bustle of city life to a serene backdrop in Norway, Maine, where they have just purchased a property to launch their dream farm-to-table business. Melissa Smith and Monte Harhouri, who met at Hakkasan restaurant in San Francisco in 2016, have taken a giant leap towards their vision of culinary events and wellness retreats.
From Hospitality to Homestead
Melissa, a talented chef hailing from California, combined her culinary expertise with Monte’s entrepreneurial spirit, rooted in his Tunisian heritage, to create something magical. The pandemic was a turning point for the couple; with Hakkasan closing its doors, Melissa shifted gears into the world of wine appraisal, while Monte became engrossed in gardening and woodworking, uncovering the joys of *home-based creativity*.
After deciding they wanted to create a business that encapsulated both of their passions, they faced a significant choice: where to plant their new roots? Initially hesitant about starting their farm-to-table venture in disaster-prone California, they explored options in southern Oregon and Washington but grew concerned about the growing droughts and wildfires.
A Move to the Northeast
With a renewed sense of purpose, the couple turned their dreams Eastward. Melissa’s familiarity with the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, set them on a path towards the Northeast. It wasn’t just any location; they wanted a property near an airport to attract visitors from nearby colleges and popular tourist spots.
They created a wishlist that included at least 10 acres of land, a soothing water feature like a pond or stream, and a functional barn to support their culinary activities. As they browsed through countless online real estate listings and chatted with agents, their dreams started becoming more tangible.
Budgeting for Dreams
With a budget around $750,000, the couple had a game plan. They were comfortable considering properties up to $650,000 if they needed a bit of TLC, while their maximum price cap meant they could snag something turn-key ready if it hit $750,000.
From an abandoned bank in Rhode Island to 40 acres of pristine land in Shaftsbury, Vermont, they had a plethora of exciting options to sift through. But in the end, it was one property that stood out from the rest.
Finalists in the Property Search
- Colonial Revival-Style home in Norway, Maine – This stunning home was built in 1912 and sprawls over 13.3 acres. Featuring five bedrooms, two baths, and a delightful stream with a charming pedestrian bridge, this property includes a two-story carriage house and kitchen facilities ideal for food operations. Priced at $749,000, it comes with annual taxes of about $10,000.
- 1832 Brick House in Pittsford, Vermont – With four acres and a main four-bedroom house, this property included a rundown barn and a two-story roadside building previously used as an art studio. Priced at $669,000 with $8,850 in taxes annually, it lacked a water feature and was a bit tight on space for their ambitious farm project.
- Inn Near Saratoga Springs, New York – A 12-acre treasure that featured an abandoned inn needing significant work, but it boasted a commercial kitchen, bar, and multiple gathering spaces. Priced at $350,000 with $7,764 in taxes a year, it had a pond in the backyard, making it a dreamy escape.
The Final Decision
Ultimately, the couple couldn’t resist the allure of the Colonial Revival-Style home in Norway, Maine. The picturesque property aligns perfectly with their vision, providing the space and facilities needed to bring their culinary retreats to life.
As they embark on this new chapter, the couple is excited about the prospect of creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where locals and tourists alike can come together to experience the joy of farm-fresh food and wellness. With their shared passion and determination, there’s no doubt Melissa and Monte are on their way to making a significant impact in the community.
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Additional Resources
- New York Times: Real Estate in New York, Vermont, and Maine
- Seven Days: Visit Waterbury, Vermont
- Spectrum News: Sewage Sludge Poisoning Drinking Wells
- Food & Wine: Knightville, South Portland, Maine
- Farm Progress: As Dairy Declines, Potatoes Pick Up Slack
