Forward Thinking Farms Introduces the “Wagyu of Chicken”

Our kitchen team works diligently to serve mouth-watering dishes day in and day out, but what they do wouldn’t be possible without our culinary partners. The dedication to their craft and the pride they take in their products is unparalleled. When it comes to taste, locally sourced ingredients are superior, and the difference can be found in each bite.

We have recently partnered with Forward Thinking Farms to offer the “wagyu of chicken.” Located near Athens, in Watkinsville, Georgia, Forward Thinking Farms has become the premier poultry supplier for our restaurant family. For years, owner CJ Smith worked in the agriculture and poultry industries, before launching his own farming venture.

In the commercial sector, the chickens are merely a unit of production, and all of their short lives are spent in un-natural conditions. Smith’s small batch farm has revolutionized the bird’s environment. Focusing on natural and humane practices, Smith created his own “chicken tractor” to provide shelter and safety. The wheeled cage is portable and can be moved across pastures, allowing the birds access to bugs, fresh grass and the other benefits of the land. The apparatus protects the chickens from predators and the elements while allowing them access to sunshine and a natural, relaxed atmosphere. Each chicken is raised on the land and enjoys a non-GMO feed purchased in nearby Reseca. The birds are then processed in a USDA certified facility.  

Smith and team at Forward Thinking Farms believe there is something to be said for knowing where your food comes from. Advocates for sustainable farming practices, the Smiths are committed to practicing and educating for animal welfare.

The difference in Forward Thinking Farms birds isn’t solely found in the fields, but in the taste. The free-range chickens are fresh, juicy, plump, and packed with flavor. Look for Chef Sara’s next chicken special soon!