Considered to be the epitome of indulgence and one of the world’s most highly prized gastronomic delights, Wagyu beef can now be found at Quarry Hill Farm, a 93-acre sustainable farmstead in Lower Salford — thanks to the vision and generosity of one family.
When 68-year-old real estate developer David Perlman and his family purchased the century old family farm at 620 Quarry Rd. in 2021 and decided to get into the cattle raising business, they had a dual mission to provide ethically raised, high-quality beef, pork, poultry and eggs to the region, and use the profits to feed the hungry in the community.
“We decided to lead with American Wagyu because it was different and we wanted to introduce this wonderful product to local families and restaurants,” said Perlman. “We hope our premium product line will attract a lot of consumers and help with our goal of utilizing our proceeds to help feed those in our community who could use a helping hand, and so far it seems that everything we’re doing is resonating.”
Over the past two and a half years, the Perlmans meticulously researched and purchased only the high quality breeding stock to begin their Wagyu operations. Cattle at Quarry Hill Farm have pedigrees from some of the best Wagyu bloodlines from across the country, but what sets them apart from other farms?
“We are a pasture-raised farm that follows organic practices, and we use genetics to produce the very best quality American Wagyu, all while employing sustainable farming measures.”
Perlman adds that the cattle are bred and raised ethically, thoughtfully, and with the utmost care, with the goal of positioning Quarry Hill to provide the best of the best to the community.
American Wagyu beef comes from descendants of the highly coveted, premium Japanese Wagyu breed (which literally translates to “Japanese Cow”) known for its marbling effect — that’s what creates the smooth, buttery texture and unparalleled flavor.
Perlman said Quarry Hill’s 150 cows are both full-blood Wagyu and cross breeds (a mixture of Holstein and Wagyu) and produce beef that is the highest quality.
“The unique taste and tenderness of highly marbled Wagyu makes for an unrivaled consumption experience, and that’s why it’s finding its way onto the menus of top chefs, fine restaurants, and in discerning home kitchens across the U.S.,” said Perlman.
Quarry Hill Farm offers a wide variety of premium Wagyu in an extensive array of cuts, including ribeye, filet mignon, NY Strip, flank steak, Picanha, short ribs, brisket, and ground beef.
“We offer burger patties and ground beef, and it’s the quality of the animal that makes our beef unrivaled,” said Perlman. “It not only tastes great, but it’s better for you. Numerous studies have shown that Wagyu is healthier due to the higher mono-unsaturated to saturated fat ratio than other breeds and that the stearic acid found in the fat has minimal impact on cholesterol levels.”
In addition to being a purveyor of Wagyu beef, Quarry Hill Farm provides the Philadelphia region with additional locally and sustainably raised farm products including Berkshire pork from pigs born and raised right on the farm, pasture-raised chicken, turkey, and farm-fresh eggs.
“Being blessed with acquiring this historical, sustainably managed farm has allowed us to establish a non-profit that provides Quarry Hill Farm the ability to donate the profits from sales to help people in our community,” Perlman said.
Last year, Quarry Hill donated 100% of its profits to Manna on Main Street, a local agency committed to ending hunger in the North Penn region by providing food and social services through a community food pantry, soup kitchen and emergency financial aid.
“Every year we will donate to a Philadelphia area food bank or shelter to fulfill our mission to help feed local families in need. We want the farm to really be there to give back to the community. Being able to do this and provide our region with the freshest, locally and sustainably grown products and some of the most sought-after beef in the world truly gratifies us. This is really hard work, but it’s absolutely worth all that it entails when we think about the people that we’re helping. I thoroughly enjoyed the real estate business for several decades, but I’ve come to realize that this is my true passion,” Perlman said.
Customers can order online, in person or by phone. There is free local delivery with a $100 minimum order. The farm ships nationwide and is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Learn more about Quarry Hill Farm by visiting https://quarryhillfarm.net. Learn more about Manna on Main Street by visiting https://mannaonmain.org.