Hart's Turkey Farm
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Restaurant |
| Founded | 1954 in Meredith, New Hampshire, United States |
| Founder | Larry Hart, Russ Hart |
| Headquarters | Meredith , United States |
Area served | New Hampshire |
Key people | Sam Willey (current manager) |
| Products | Turkey-based dishes, catering services |
Number of employees | Up to 230 (seasonal) |
Hart's Turkey Farm is a dining establishment located in Meredith, New Hampshire, United States, founded in 1954. It offers an extensive menu that predominantly showcases turkey-based dishes.
History
In 1946, brothers Larry and Russ Hart, along with their spouses, moved from the suburbs of New Jersey to New Hampshire's Lakes Region. There, they initiated a farm specializing in the sale of produce and meats, including turkeys. By 1953, their focus narrowed exclusively to turkeys, leading to the opening of a modest 12-seat eatery in Meredith in 1954. This restaurant served turkey sandwiches and dinners prepared from their farm-raised birds. Following Larry's passing in 1960, Russ assumed sole ownership and transitioned the venture into a full-time restaurant operation by 1965, sourcing turkeys from other farms while maintaining rigorous quality control.
In 1986, Russ’s children—Lynn, Dale, Russell T., and Glenn Hart—took over ownership of the restaurant. Currently, the establishment is managed by family member Sam Willey. The business expanded with a second branch in Manchester in 2008; however, this location was temporarily closed for renovations in 2011 and ultimately ceased operations permanently by 2021.
The restaurant celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2014 with an open house event for the tourism sector that drew over 600 attendees. During peak summer seasons, Hart's Turkey Farm employs up to 230 staff members but encountered a shortage of approximately 100 employees during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. Owner Willey has supported employees by offering reduced rent in company-owned housing units.
The company's operational model includes an annual Thanksgiving dinner program that provides complimentary meals to individuals who are either in need or spending the holiday alone. Additionally, Hart's offers catering services. The original Meredith location has welcomed distinguished visitors such as Katharine Hepburn and Caroline Kennedy.
Restaurant design and style
Hart's Turkey Farm occupies a spacious white building featuring ample parking space and a gift shop at its entrance. The interior comprises several wood-paneled dining rooms with a combined seating capacity exceeding 500 guests. Each room is adorned with an extensive collection of over 1,000 turkey-themed platters, a tradition started by founder Mae Hart. The premises also include a bar and bakery that contribute to the varied offerings available.
Cuisine
While initially raising its own turkeys on-site, Hart's now primarily obtains its poultry from a major supplier based in Utah. The menu is heavily centered on turkey dishes, with the hallmark item being a daily Thanksgiving-style meal that includes roasted turkey served in three portion sizes; this entrée was priced at $22.95 as of 2014. Additional turkey selections include drumstick dinners and sandwiches such as turkey meatball and "Turkey Gobbler," along with turkey adaptations of classics like chicken divan, alfredo pasta, and cheesesteaks.
Appetizers emphasize turkey croquettes, nuggets, potstickers, quesadillas, soups, tempura preparations, and sautéed turkey liver accompanied by various sides. Non-turkey fare features hamburgers, pasta dishes, fried clams, and seasonal lobster rolls. Hart's also produces proprietary salad dressings, mashed potatoes, chowders, relishes, and ice cream to enhance its distinctive product range.
In terms of consumption volume, the restaurant sold more than one ton of turkey daily in 2011 and served an average of 100 turkeys per day by 2021. Thanksgiving remains its busiest period with approximately 1,600 dinners served on-site and another 180 meals provided as takeout orders.
Reception
Hart's Turkey Farm is celebrated for its exceptional customer care and unique dining environment. ABC News commended the restaurant for its high-quality cuisine and desserts, specifically noting favorites such as the stuffing and mashed potatoes. Local officials consider it a cherished New Hampshire landmark, and it has been featured on media platforms including Phantom Gourmet, the Travel Channel, and the Michelin Guide.
External links
- "Hart's Turkey Farm's Vintage Turkey Plate Collection" from New Hampshire magazine