BALLSTON LAKE — Fresh-pressed apple cider, warm cider donuts and fresh crisp apples. The fall season has arrived at Lakeside Farms Country Market and Restaurant in Ballston Lake.
Lakeside Farms is a family owned business that was started when Robert Pearce purchased the Schauber Road farm with its 19th century barn and cider press in 1948. Today, the “Farm” is run by third-generation brothers Jeff and Rich Pearce. The business has grown to include a restaurant, market, pavilion for special occasions and the Ye Olde Farmhouse Gift Shoppe.
With all the changes to Lakeside throughout the years, it’s still about the cider and the cider donuts that keep people coming back to Lakeside Farms. Though there is heavy competition from other Capital District farms, the Pearce family takes great pride in producing an excellent cider donut with its own unique taste that sets it apart from all the rest. Many customers are buying them to send to family members.
The Pearce’s make certain the cider press and the cider donut machine are front and center in the autumn months Lakeside still uses the cider press from the 1890’s. The cider donut machine is used daily and is always making fresh, tasty donuts.
Beyond the cider and donuts, Lakeside Farms offers a variety of local products and locally grown produce. Among the items for sale are eggs, milk, honey, maple syrup and cheddar cheese.
Lakeside Farms really began to diversify in the early ‘80s when it sold sandwiches and pies. When that became popular, the business later expanded to offer a breakfast menu, and an expanded dining area soon followed. The pavilion, added in ‘90s, has since hosted special events and is used for weddings, graduation parties and reunions.
See the advertisement below for contact information on Lakeside Farms.
