As the days grow longer, a cherished springtime tradition returns to The Catskills—ramp season! Also known as wild leeks, ramps are one of the earliest edible greens to appear in the region, and they pack a punch of garlicky, oniony flavor everyone loves.
This short-lived delicacy is a seasonal staple among chefs, farmers, and foragers alike. Whether you’re curious to try ramps for the first time or are already a self-proclaimed ramp fanatic, here are some exciting happenings that will help you celebrate this gift from the woods:
Forage & Learn
RAMP FORAGING with BRUCE POLLOCK at The DeBruce:
Saturday, May 17, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Take a walk on the wild side—literally. Join nature guide Bruce Pollock for a foraging adventure on the picturesque grounds of The DeBruce. You’ll hike to ramp fields, learn sustainable harvesting techniques, and bring home your own bundle of ramps. Afterward, chat with the chefs to get inspired with recipes and preparation tips.
Complimentary for in-house guests.
Rampage! at the Outside Institute
Saturday, May 3rd, 1-4PM: Join founding naturalist Laura Chávez Silverman for a fun day of learning, spending time outdoors in community and sampling delicious wild flavors. The event is held on an extensive and lovingly tended private ramp patch along the Delaware River. A wildcrafted menu of foraged food and drink will be served, featuring locally harvested ingredients such as ramp, nettle, toothwort, magnolia, black walnut, chaga, cattail, knotweed, wild mushroom and spicebush.
Taste the Season
Black Walnut This cozy, chef-driven spot is going all-in on ramps with a seasonal pasta dish and a craft cocktail designed to showcase their vibrant, savory flavor.
The DeBruce Don’t miss their Spring Tasting Menu (starting April 14) featuring local trout and ramps harvested from the property.
The Dale Swing by this favorite neighborhood eatery to try their ramp pizza special—a delicious spin on a classic that’s only available while ramps are in season!
Northern Farmhouse Pasta Visit the restaurant in Roscoe to enjoy fresh pasta dishes featuring ramps.
The Arnold House serves a seasonal cocktail called the “Ramp Gibson” that combines gin and ramp juice!
Forage Pizza In Forestburgh, enjoy delicious ramp pizza specials all season long!
The Junction Stop by their Junction in Roscoe for a special ramp cocktail coming soon.
Stock Your Pantry
Callicoon Pantry Known for curating small-batch and artisanal goods, Callicoon Pantry will be offering fresh ramps and ramp-forward pantry staples like ramp salt—perfect for sprinkling over roasted veggies or adding zing to eggs and potatoes.
Main Street Farm Located in Livingston Manor, find snacks, fresh ramps & more!
Somewhere in Time Farm Located in Parksville, find fresh ramps and other fresh producte
Sullivan Sundries Looking to cook with ramps at home? These local gems are stocked up with freshly harvested ramps ready for your next culinary creation.
Celebrate with Community
Catskill Brewery’s Ramp & Forage Festival:
Saturday, May 10, 2025 @ 12:00 pm: This beloved brewery is going green—literally. Their Ramp & Forage Festival features the “How to Take a Leek” workshop (yes, you read that right). This session focuses on ramp stewardship and springtime foraging practices, so you can learn how to enjoy ramps responsibly and sustainably.
Spend The Weekend!
The DeBruce Book a stay and forage at The DeBruce all spring! Enjoy the spring tasting menu featuring local trout and ramps from the property ✨
Why Ramps Matter
Besides being a culinary treat, ramps are a reminder of our region’s deep connection to the land. These wild edibles grow in rich, undisturbed forests and should be harvested mindfully to ensure they return year after year. When foraging on public land, please leave the roots and only cut every other leaf!
Many local chefs and foragers are leading the charge in ramp sustainability, emphasizing ethical harvesting and appreciation of our natural bounty. From woodland foraging to wood-fired pizzas, it is the perfect time to explore The Catskills and enjoy ramp season. So grab your basket, bring your appetite, and get ready to experience spring like a local!
