As I always say: “It’s all about people.” Because, in the end, it’s the great minds, the visionaries, and the doers who genuinely make a difference. And one of those people, someone I deeply admire and consider a dear friend, is Ed Chiles.
Ed, the owner of Gamble Creek Farms and formerly the proud proprietor of The Sandbar, Beach House, and Mar Vista restaurants, has always been ahead of his time. He has one goal: to create a better food system that is good for people and the environment. "Everything we do out here, we want it to be good for the ground down and the ground up. Is it good for the environment? Is it good for our health? Is it good for Gamble Creek, which runs into the estuaries and affects red tides and water quality? That’s the litmus test." – Ed says.
The places operated by Ed Chiles are part of my experience in Sarasota. Not only did I celebrate my wedding at The Sandbar, but Gamble Creek Farms was the very first place I volunteered, picking tomatoes under the Florida sun. Fast-forward five years, I returned to the farm, only to find it had evolved into something even more remarkable.
Just a 40-minute drive from downtown Sarasota, you are surrounded by rolling farmland, fresh air, and the peaceful countryside. This is home to Gamble Creek Farms.
This land has a rich history. For over 40 years, it thrived as an orange grove before transforming into a community-supported agriculture (CSA) hub. When Ed Chiles began leasing the property in 2013, he saw more than just a farm—he envisioned a model for sustainable food production. In 2021, the Chiles Group officially purchased the 26-acre property, securing its future as a center for regenerative agriculture, community education, and local food production. Today, Gamble Creek Farms embodies the power of passion, sustainability, and commitment.
Walking through the farm, I was in awe of the variety of vegetables, greens, and fruits thriving in the rich, organic soil. The team here doesn’t just plant crops—they restore the earth, using composting, mulching, and worm castings to rebuild soil health naturally. No synthetic chemicals, no harmful pesticides—just pure, nutrient-rich food grown as nature intended.
None of this would have been possible without the expertise and dedication of the people behind the scenes. A special thank you to Zack Rasmussen, crop manager, and his wife, Natasha Ahuja, for taking care of the farm with love. Zack leads the way in all aspects of soil management, permaculture, polyculture, and regenerative farming techniques. His commitment to sustainable practices ensures that the farm thrives today and continues to flourish for future generations.
And what an incredible selection they have! The farm grows Swiss chard, kale, lettuce, sun gold tomatoes, and other veggies, and they also cultivate a stunning variety of microgreens packed with flavor and nutrients. Microgreens are a big deal here—they’re harvested young, ensuring they deliver the maximum amount of vitamins and antioxidants.
In addition to being certified organic by the USDA, Gamble Creek Farm is now approved by the Real Organic Project. There are only four other organic farms in Florida with this certification and over 1,000 across the U.S. This designation ensures that they grow in biologically active soil connected to the subsoil, fostering a truly regenerative system.
But Gamble Creek Farm's magic doesn’t stop at produce. The Farmers Market is a true community hub, collaborating with local businesses to bring customers the best of Florida’s organic bounty. Everything is carefully curated, super clean, and presented with a smile. Ed’s team feels like family, and the warmth is undeniable from the moment you step onto the farm. What You’ll Find at the Market:
Seasonal Organic Produce – Fresh-picked veggies straight from the farm.
Handcrafted Soups and fresh-baked Goods—Made in-house using farm-grown ingredients. Try their signature pumpkin vegan soup, butternut squash, tomato basil, or mushroom soup! Enjoy locally made bread, flaky croissants, and a variety of pastries, all crafted with care by an artisan bakery.
Local Meats & Dairy – Ethically sourced, organic, and hormone-free meats and dairy products.
Freshly Roasted Coffee – Organic, locally roasted, and full of rich flavor.
Handmade Cosmetics & Skincare – Natural, chemical-free skincare products carefully selected to meet the highest standards.
Partnership with Local Businesses – Supporting Florida-based artisans and farmers, ensuring every product has a story and a purpose.
Everything here is ethically produced, sustainably sourced, and delicious. It’s a one-stop shop for anyone who cares about what they put on their plate and their skin.
Gamble Creek Farms is a place of learning and community. It regularly hosts workshops, events, and immersive experiences, inviting people to connect with nature, farming, and creativity. Whether it’s a DIY dreamcatcher workshop, hands-on gardening lessons, or special seasonal events, there’s always something happening at the farm. To see what’s next, visit its Events Page and immerse yourself in the vibrant community that makes this farm unique.
Ed and his team are deeply involved in environmental restoration efforts, particularly preventing red tide and harmful algal blooms. Everything they do on the farm—from soil restoration to composting—helps protect nearby waters, including Gamble Creek and the estuaries. The farm has now installed solar panels, taking a significant step toward energy independence and reducing its carbon footprint. It’s farming for the future, ensuring that the land and water remain healthy for generations.
So, if you haven’t been to Gamble Creek Farms yet, now’s the time. Take the short drive, stroll through the market, grab some fresh veggies, and experience what real food, farming, and sustainability feel like. Because this isn’t just a farm—it’s a vision for a better world.
Please check out the short videos to learn more about the farm:
Follow them on Instagram: Gamble Creek Farms.
Photos: iruphotos.com
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