When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Farmer's Fridge
Why Farmer's Fridge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Farmer's Fridge revolutionizes the way busy people access healthy food by offering fresh, chef-crafted meals through an innovative network of smart vending machines. With over 2,000 locations across the United States—including airports, hospitals, offices, universities, and retail stores—it makes nutritious eating as easy as grabbing a snack. Each meal is meticulously prepared in Farmer's Fridge's Chicago kitchen using carefully sourced, high-quality fruits and vegetables. Whether you need a quick salad, sandwich, or breakfast item, Farmer's Fridge provides a diverse menu that caters to those with active, on-the-go lifestyles. Their smart fridges are designed to emphasize fresh food as the star, with simple, clean packaging that showcases the vibrant ingredients inside. Beyond convenience, the company focuses on sustainable sourcing and creating an accessible, affordable alternative to less healthy fast options. This makes Farmer's Fridge a great spot to meet or grab something quick, fresh, and satisfying with friends, blending health-conscious choices with modern convenience.
Here's what people think of Farmer's Fridge
As of recent, Farmer's Fridge holds a 4.5-star rating based on 90 reviews.
Customer reviews of Farmer's Fridge consistently praise the brand for its commitment to healthy, affordable meals that fit busy lifestyles. Positive feedback highlights the great taste and freshness of the meals, as well as the transparent labeling of ingredients, which reassures customers about what they’re eating. Many appreciate the reasonable pricing, especially when compared to other delivery or fast-food options, and the convenience of finding Farmer's Fridge locations in diverse everyday settings. Users mention the flexibility of delivery services and the variety of meal options including salads, bowls, and breakfast items that keep the menu interesting and fresh. On the other hand, some criticisms include occasional dissatisfaction with specific food items, reflecting early challenges the company acknowledged in improving their menu. A few users have pointed out issues related to pricing on certain items and occasional availability concerns at some locations. Despite minor negatives, the overall impression from reviews is highly favorable. Customers value Farmer's Fridge for making healthy food easily accessible on the go, and this positive reception supports its growing presence nationwide.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ross
For an airport, the prices are incredible. I got a small salad for under $7, and they have large salads for around $12. For that price I could get 2 and still pay less than the restaurant next door. Everything tasted fresh and the sauce was excellent and flavorful. The mobile ordering on their app was super quick and made the pickup process seamless. I do wish they had more vegan options.
David Lariviere
The food is pretty good! And the price is extremely reasonable. For a few dollars more than the cost of a bottle of water from the nearby kios, I got a healthy, tasty bowl. Portion size was a little too small for me, but that's okay, I'll just order more. Still a good price for a healthy and tasty option
Carol Ann Van Dyne
I just had the tastiest chicken Ceasar salad in a jar! It had crispy chickpeas and a flavorful dressing on the side. So easy! Now several food kiosks carry Farmer's Fridge items. They're easy to spot with the green lids. I appreciate the freshness date on the items. So satisfying!
Kelly Goodman
I’m just wondering why I’ve never tried this before. It’s very convenient & was really yummy. So much better than most all airport food I’ve ever had. Also… The utensils and bowls are on the side of the machine!!!
Tessa Maneewong
Almost perfect! Food is good, packaging is good, but no utensil. I’m currently using the dressing cup to pick up my salad from the container lol. It’s 11pm and I can’t find forks anywhere in this airport. Please add utensil and this will be a 5+ stars experience! Can even be one of those bamboo fork if we wanna go the sustainable route.
How to reach Farmer's Fridge
None
Website: None
Why Farmer's Fridge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you're thinking about where to gather with your friends for a relaxed, convenient, and health-conscious meetup, Farmer's Fridge offers a uniquely refreshing option. Unlike traditional restaurants or fast food joints, Farmer's Fridge redefines casual dining by providing fresh, healthy, chef-curated meals accessible 24/7 through smart vending machines. This makes it an ideal spot for groups looking to enjoy quality food without the hassles of long waits or complicated ordering. The atmosphere around Farmer's Fridge locations is low-key but modern, emphasizing convenience without sacrificing the taste or nutritional value of the meals. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 90 reviews, it demonstrates strong customer satisfaction, highlighting the consistent quality and appeal of its offerings. Whether you want to grab a quick salad, a tasty grain bowl, or a refreshing snack, Farmer's Fridge invites you and your friends to an informal yet healthful dining experience that suits all schedules and tastes. Its tech-forward approach coupled with an uncompromising commitment to fresh food also creates an engaging conversation starter and a fresh twist on dining out as a group.
What activities can you do at Farmer's Fridge and why is it perfect for group meetups?
Farmer's Fridge is primarily focused on providing fresh, healthy meals via smart, self-service vending machines, so the core activity is enjoying quality food in a casual setting. This makes it a convenient spot to start or end your group activities, grab a nutritious bite after a workout, or casually meet up for lunch or snacks without the need to wait for seating or service. Because the food is curated by chefs and prepared fresh daily, groups can enjoy a variety of options that cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-calorie choices. The machines are often located in accessible urban spaces such as office buildings, airports, hospitals, and universities, which means they are easy to incorporate into any city outing with friends or family.
Moreover, Farmer's Fridge’s 24/7 availability means your group isn’t constrained by regular restaurant hours, allowing for flexible meetups whether early morning or late at night. This accessibility is perfect for diverse groups with varied schedules. Besides just eating, the convenience and cleanliness of the locations encourage socializing in nearby public or community spaces. Some sites may have small seating areas or benches nearby, supporting casual mingling and interaction. The fact that the meals are individually packaged also reassures groups who want a hygienic, hassle-free option.
Why is Farmer's Fridge a unique and convenient food choice for groups?
Farmer’s Fridge stands out in the foodservice market by combining fresh, chef-made meals with the convenience of vending technology. Unlike typical vending machines that offer prepackaged snacks or processed food, Farmer’s Fridge provides fully prepared meals made daily in an in-house commissary, ensuring quality and freshness — a critical plus for groups mindful of health. The business has grown substantially in just ten years, with over 1,000 smart Fridges across 20 markets, demonstrating the brand’s reliability and customer trust.
Its pricing strategy, with meals ranging from $4 to $9.99, makes it budget-friendly for everyone in the group, no matter the size or spending preferences. This accessibility is enhanced by the company’s focus on sustainability, with a target food waste rate of only 3% to 4%, which will appeal to environmentally aware groups. The packaging and presentation are also designed to highlight the food, showing the vibrant, fresh ingredients clearly, which elevates the overall dining experience. Group members can easily browse the menu options right on the machine’s screen and customize their orders without complicated steps, making it friendly even for those new to the concept.
How does Farmer's Fridge ensure food quality and safety for groups?
One of Farmer’s Fridge’s hallmarks is its dedication to uncompromising food safety and quality. All the meals are produced in the company’s Chicago-based production facility where over 120 employees work under strict standards. The company takes pride in paying above minimum wage and providing benefits, which translates into a motivated workforce committed to high standards. The ingredients are sourced for freshness, and careful attention is paid to packaging that preserves the shelf life for five to eight days without compromising taste or safety.
This rigorous focus on quality means groups visiting Farmer’s Fridge can be confident in the meals they share, avoiding concerns common with vending machine food. The controlled supply chain, from preparation to delivery via company-owned trucks, ensures that every meal reaches the fridge in peak condition. Given that group meetups often revolve around shared trust and enjoyment, this level of reliability supports a relaxed, worry-free gathering. Furthermore, the company continues to innovate its menu based on consumer feedback, increasing the flavor and variety available to customers, which shows a responsiveness that benefits communal dining.
What makes the Farmer's Fridge experience different from traditional dining or takeout when meeting friends?
The Farmer’s Fridge experience blends the immediacy of vending machines with the quality and nutrition of a restaurant-quality meal, a rare combination that offers a fresh foodie approach for meetups. Unlike traditional dining where groups are often squeezed into seating arrangements at overcrowded venues, or takeout where food may be a mixed bag in quality or warmth, Farmer’s Fridge offers immediate access to ready-to-eat meals with no wait and no need for reservations. This speeds up meetups, letting friends focus more on social interaction and less on the logistics of food.
The self-service element means parties can gather flexibly around the machine, each choosing their own meal without having to conform to a single menu or course plan, supporting groups with diverse tastes and dietary needs. Additionally, the modern, clean design of Farmer’s Fridge installations adds a contemporary vibe that feels novel and tech-savvy—a great conversation starter that sets it apart from standard fast food chains or casual eateries. For groups that prioritize wellness or want a quick yet nourishing bite while enjoying urban or transit surroundings, this combination of convenience and high-quality food is truly compelling.
How does Farmer's Fridge serve diverse groups in various locations?
Farmer’s Fridge is strategically placed in locations that see diverse foot traffic, including airports, office buildings, hospitals, and educational campuses, making it versatile for various group types. Whether your meetup involves busy professionals, athletes, students, or families, you’ll find the vending machines conveniently situated and ready at different times of day. This flexibility is a major advantage for group gatherings that might otherwise be complicated by conflicting schedules.
The food selection is curated to appeal broadly, with options that satisfy varied nutritional needs and personal tastes. This inclusivity is vital for groups that may include individuals with allergies, dietary restrictions, or lifestyle preferences. Besides meals, snacks and drinks are also available, helping groups extend their visit or cater to different hunger levels. The availability of Farmer’s Fridge in multi-tenant buildings ensures that even communities with no immediate food outlets nearby can enjoy a reliable meal source together, which encourages more spontaneous and frequent meetups. Also, its contactless, self-serve design aligns well with health-conscious groups in a post-pandemic world.
Why is Farmer's Fridge an excellent choice for hosting family or friend meetups over other venues?
Choosing Farmer's Fridge for meetups with family or friends is particularly smart for those who want a casual yet thoughtfully curated food encounter. The freshness and variety of menu options make it easier to please different age groups and tastes without the stress of cooking or dining out at a busy restaurant. Groups appreciate the ability to quickly grab healthy meals that feel homemade but have the convenience of vending machines.
Additionally, Farmer’s Fridge’s commitment to sustainability and local employment reflects positively on group gatherings that value social responsibility. The cost-effectiveness and availability throughout the day help avoid overspending or scrambling for open restaurants, streamlining plans. Its fast, hygienic service allows families with children or older adults to enjoy meals without excessive waiting or transit. Overall, Farmer’s Fridge presents a friendly, modern food solution for groups that want to prioritize convenience, wellbeing, and quality in their social experiences.