North Fork farm stands to visit this fall

It’s harvest time on the North Fork, and farm stands large and small are displaying their pumpkins, apples and corn to the slow-moving traffic on routes 48 and 25. Some of these colorful stands also are serving standout food. Stop not only for future jack-o'-lanterns but for snacks, drinks and light meals. Seasonal treats including cider doughnuts, roasted corn and farm egg sandwiches will sustain you.

Harbes Family Farm

715 Sound Ave., Mattituck

This veritable farm playground features something for all ages, from the petting zoo and pig races to musical hayride tours. Grown-ups can sample Harbes wines in the tasting barn. On the food front, Harbes offers more than most. Roasted corn, pressed sandwiches, cider doughnuts and corn-flavored ice cream can fuel an entire day of farm fun. More info: 631-482-7641, harbesfamilyfarm.com

Garden of Eve

4558 Sound Ave., Riverhead

This large organic farm at the intersection of Sound Avenue and the Northville Turnpike has a roasted corn stand at the entrance to its play area that includes a bounce pad, a tower of hay and a pedal kart track. Inside the farm store, there is a cafe serving items like Eve's egg and cheese sandwich with pesto mayo, greens and cheese on brioche. An adorable farm brewery attached to the store sells beers with names like Haystack Lager and Farm the Back 40 Session IPA. More info: 631-722-8777, gardenofevefarm.com

Patty’s Berries and Bunches

410 Sound Ave., Mattituck

While the u-pick berry fields at this Mattituck farm close at the end of August, flowers are available through October and they are spectacular: Sunflowers, zinnias, gladiolas, dahlias and more arranged in vibrant bunches every day. The farm stand's own ice cream is made with farm flavors including pumpkin, apple pie and rosemary. More info: 631-655-7996, pattysberriesandbunches.org

Hallock’s Cider Mill

1960 Main Rd., Laurel

This farm stand is most famous for its clam chowder, passed down through a dozen generations of Hallocks since the first one arrived on Long Island in 1640. It also stocks an array of preserved foods including jams, jellies, salsas and pickled eggs. Baked goods, including pies, are the bestsellers. For a satisfying breakfast treat or afternoon snack, nothing beats the farm's apple pastries at this time of year. Choose from apple fritters studded with chunks of tender apple, doughnuts filled with apple pie filling and apple turnovers. The cider, made from a proprietary blend of local apples, also is outstanding. More info: 631-298-1140

8 Hands Farm

4735 Cox Lane, Cutchogue

The centerpiece of this organic, sustainable farm is a small herd of Icelandic sheep. Heritage pigs share their pasture, and free-range chickens roam the 28 acres where vegetables also are grown. At the farm store, you can purchase pasture-raised meat and eggs as well as wool for knitting. The farm also offers a variety of homemade ready-to-eat items including sweet and savory pastries, salads, charcuterie and frozen custard. Grab a bite and enjoy at one of the picnic tables overlooking the farm pastures. More info: 631-494-6155, 8handsfarm.com

Briermere Farms

4414 Sound Ave., Riverhead

Although this Riverhead farm stand offers seasonal fruits and vegetables, the main attraction is the pie menu, which features over 25 choices ranging from traditional apple to raspberry-plum to coconut meringue. Take your place in line outside the bakery and enjoy the aromas of baking fruit and pastry while you wait. Choose from what's available when it's your turn. Enjoy some of Briermere's muffins and cookies along with coffee at picnic tables in the side yard. More info: 631-722-3931, briermerefarms.com