CONGRATULATIONS on winning FIRST place for the Best Vendor at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market in the 2019 Best Of Santa Fe Competition.
Matt and Emily have been vending at the Santa Fe farmers’ Market since 2001. Their farm is certified organic, acequia-irrigated, and you may visit their website for recipes.
Check out the story Romero Farms in the June, 2017, Local Flavor.
In 2017, Romero Farms was chosen as Best Farmer in the Edible Santa Fe “Local Hero Awards,” created to recognize amazing individuals and organizations for their work to create healthy, sustainable food systems in New Mexico. Read about Romero Farms here.
A chat with Matt in April, 2018
What is a signature item that you sell?
Year-round variety of vegetables. The chile is just one part of what we provide.
How long have you been farming?
18 years – the year my daughter was born
How long have you been a member of the Market?
17 years
Share a favorite memory of the Market.
The day we opened this building. I cried, it was so beautiful. I was seeing the future of this market. For all its problems, it is the best decision we’ve made.
How did you get into farming?
Accidentally. My wife and I became caretakers of her mother’s estate. Once I got a taste of farming, I gave up my career as an executive chef.
Do you own or rent the land you grow on?
We own two pieces of land, and lease one. If a farmer doesn’t own land, he’s a temporary farmer.
Are you certified organic?
Yes
How was your growing season last year?
We had an amazing year last year. We pray for the same results each year.
What crops are coming up next, seasonally?
Kale, chard, radish, daikon, salad greens
Besides farming, what takes up your time? What are your hobbies?
Fishing and hunting
Do you speak any other languages?
Spanish and jive (referencing the movie Airplane)
Are you celebrating anything special this year?
Our 20th wedding anniversary!
How would you describe yourself in one word or phrase?
Energetic and passionate
What is your favorite dish to make?
Red chile. I make it using the pods with a Vitamix blender. The powdered chile loses its flavor due to oxidation. The pods hold up better and last longer.
Red or Green?
Green is why we move here; red is why we stay.
If you were a super hero what would your powers be and why?
Speed charmer
What is the strangest thing you’ve eaten?
Tongue
What have you done that you are most proud of?
Created our farm out of nothing