A Berry Good Time--South Florida's farming region has been steadily shrinking in the face of industrial expansion, but you'll still find several spots where you can get back to nature while indulging in a local gastronomic delight -- picking your own produce at the "U-Pic-'Em" farms that dot South Dade's landscape. Depending on what's in season, you can get everything from fresh herbs and vegetables to a mélange of citrus fruits and berries. During berry season -- January through April -- it's not uncommon to see hardy pickers leaving the groves with hands and faces that are stained a tale-telling crimson and garnished with happy smiles. On your way through South Dade, keep an eye out for the bright red U-PIC signs.
There are also a number of fantastic fruit stands in the region. Burr's Berry Farms, 12741 SW 216th St. (tel. 305/251-0145), located in the township of Goulds, about an hour from downtown Miami, has created a sensation with its fabulous strawberry milkshakes. To get there, go south on U.S. 1 and turn right on SW 216th St. The fruit stand is about 1 mile west. It's open daily from 9am to 5:30pm.
For fresh fruit in a tasty pastry or tart, head over to Knaus Berry Farm, at 15980 SW 248th St. (tel. 305/247-0668), in an area known as the Redlands. Some people erroneously call this farm an Amish farm, but in actuality, it's run by a sect of German Baptists. The stand offers items ranging from fresh flowers to homemade ice cream, but be sure to indulge in one of their famous homemade cinnamon buns. Be prepared to wait in a long line to stock up -- people flock here from as far away as Palm Beach. Head south on U.S. 1 and turn right on 248th Street. The stand is 2 1/2 miles farther on the left side. Open Monday through Saturday from 8am to 5:30pm.
