The Ecology Center - San Juan Capistrano, California

Shahbaz S.

I went there for the first time yesterday. Very interesting concept. We walked the super market and ordered food. The food was delicious and very fresh. I think they grown everything themselves and from other small farms. Definitely a great place to shop and eat. I am all about supporting small farms. They offer many activities as well. Movie nights, etc will definitely go back.

NANCY K. M.

Wow, this is a hidden gem. I went to do a notarization and was stunned to find out that this place exists! It's right in my backyard and I had no idea. It has an awesome store, a delish cafe, and 28 acres of goodness. If you haven't been, don't delay. It's a destination spot that no one should miss if you're coming to San Juan Capistrano! Colleen, and all the Ecology Center staff are warm and friendly!

Jackie F.

We come here for fresh veggies and bread from FKN Bakery. My son loves coming here and running around and seeing the chickens. Such a cute spot. Their fruit and veggies are labeled with the local farm they came from, and their pantry items are always the best version of whatever it is and usually a brand I've recently read about and wanted to try. I can't always get all the veggies I want for the week from here, but it's a good start!

Dylan H.

Wow, I am blown away by this place. I went there on a recommendation by a friend, he was spot on with what I was getting into.

I took a bunch of the citrus in different flavors, not expecting much. I was mind blown that the freshness and flavor of these fruits were so on point.

The staff of super friendly, and I had fun as soon as I walked in.

I got the recommendation of a gentleman with a mustache and glasses on some healthy snacks, he was on point with his recommendation for his “trail cookie.”

I walked around back to check it out and realized that it’s a whole event space, they probably do some really cool things here. I love the farm vibe with the freshness of produce that was picked that day if not moments ago.

I would highly recommend checking this place out. It’s a little pricey, but you get what you pay for.

Paul H.

I have to say this is one " amazing experience" you start off stranger sitting at a table and it feels like you become friends before the meal is over, if you have not tried it. The market, school, children's workshop, gardens, and let's talk about the food!!!!
Chefs from local restaurants are featured throughout, the volunteer staff are amazing!
Thank you Art for suggesting it, what and evening to remember. The food, the company, and let's not forget the music!!😉👍🏼

ifeyanishaminya

I came here with another organization yesterday and was very impressed. You can tell that a lot of effort and love was put into this place. There's such a large variety of native and edible plants and trees that were all over the property. One spot, you can find an apple tree and peach tree with some native sage, and another you can find an orange tree with a passionfruit vine nearby.

The recently-opened Cafe had limited options during the time being, but it makes sense given that it's still winter and they cook with what they grow on site. The cauliflower soup and focaccia were very delicious and well-seasoned.

The market seriously tickled my brain on how amazing everything looked. I got some soap and tomato passata. The soap smelt lovely, and the passata tasted very nice. The staff in the market are very friendly and helpful and recommended extremely delicious donuts from the laguna baking co. The prices are comparable to farmer's market prices, which tend to be on the higher end. However, after hearing how well-paid and compensated the farmers are, it's worth every penny.

If you're a fan of local and sustainably-sourced food, along with ethical practices, then this is the place for you.

Brianna S.

Absolutely LOVE the Ecology center, and especially their Eco Tots program. We had so much fun that we went twice in one week. My daughters and my nephew had so much fun they didn't want to leave. Jill made everything so interactive and fun. She walked around to all of the kids and engaged with them, taught them how to plant vegetables and flowers, made fairy wands with them, read them stories, and let their little minds wander. They got to pick and eat fruit straight from the vines, feed chickens, and learn about chicken eggs and farming. They were fully immersed in their surroundings, learning, playing, and having so much fun. We can't wait to go back!

Sue Z.

The Ecology Center is an oasis of peace and calm in busy Orange County. I have been buying fresh organic food, gifts, and flowers here for many years. The fresh off the farm food is incredibly creative and tasty. Be prepared to slow yourself down, take a deep breath, and enjoy a few hours of eating, drinking a yummy beverage, and listening to the music of the spheres.
In addition to the usual daily offerings, there are special events here beyond compare. I have enjoyed many yoga, meditation, and unique shopping experiences here, and yesterday attended the Day of the (Grateful) Dead music festival, which was fantastic! 5 stars for sure.