As the days grow longer and the forest floor awakens from its winter nap, a cherished springtime tradition returns to the Sullivan 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 that foodies can’t get enough of.
This short-lived delicacy has become a seasonal staple among local 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 this season that will help you celebrate this fleeting but flavorful 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 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!
The Arnold House serves a seasonal cocktail called the “Ramp Gibson” that combines gin and ramp juice!
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, Somewhere in Time Farm and 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.
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. 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, there’s no better time to explore the Sullivan Catskills than during ramp season. So grab your basket, bring your appetite, and get ready to experience spring like a local!
