Local hospitality
Local food
Local hospitality Local food
Violet Hill Farm is a century farm located in Webster County, Iowa just 10 miles west of Fort Dodge.
When we moved back to Iowa, we were honored to be invited to farms across Central Iowa, sharing meals with locals that highlighted farmers’ crops and produce. We were flattered by the interest and excitement people showed in what we were doing—so much so that we realized our own family farm could be the perfect place to share those same meals and experiences.
Our goal is to be Central Iowa’s go-to destination for immersive culinary adventures and unforgettable events.
We focus on seasonal, ingredient-driven cooking that highlights the best of our region. At Violet Hill Farm, food is at the center of everything we do—from curated farm-to-table dinners to hands-on culinary classes that invite guests into the process. Our farm also serves as a venue for private events, weddings, celebrations, and gatherings of all kinds.
Come visit us at Violet Hill Farm and experience it for yourself—we’d love to welcome you to our table.
A place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy dinner where it’s grown.
James
James Arbaugh is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in upstate New York and has led kitchens in both high-volume and fine dining settings.
He served as Executive Chef and Culinary Director at Lua Brewing and helped concept and operate Either/Or in Des Moines, Iowa. He was also Chef de Cuisine at the Michelin-starred Plumed Horse in California.
James specializes in seasonal cooking, fermentation, and culinary education. He has also collaborated and cooked dinners on farms, including the nationally recognized “Outstanding in the Field” series.
Molly
Molly trained at the International Culinary Center in California. She honed her skills at Pasta Armellino, The Fatted Calf, the Plumed Horse, and The Cafe, focusing on handmade pasta, charcuterie, and rustic baking. She brings an elevated twist to everyday practicality in the kitchen.
Her passion shines in intimate, celebrations - from bridal and baby showers to intimate family dinners where guests enjoy her distinctive, refined take on familiar dishes.
Our Farm
Our family’s story begins in 1867, when Frederick and Maria Hasselbring traveled from Hannover, Germany, to the United States. In 1883, they settled on this farm, which has now been in our family since. For 142 years this land has remained in our family, making us a proud Century Farm (just a few years away from being recognized as a Heritage Farm)! Generations later, Frederick and Maria’s granddaughter, Florence, married into the Doster family, giving our farm operation its name. Today, Doster Farms continues the legacy through our corn and soybean production. Read more here.
-
Our Mission
Our goal is to be North Central Iowa’s go-to destination for immersive culinary experiences and unforgettable events.
-
Our Values
Community, Hospitality, Transparency, Sustainability.
-
Our Vision
Our farm is a place where people connect with the food they eat, learn to prepare it, celebrate local farmers, and enjoy the joys of farm life. We aim to expand our garden production with the goal of sourcing the majority of our produce directly from our farm.