Hidden Star Orchards

Hidden Star Orchards has been a cornerstone of the San Francisco Bay Area food community for over 20 years. Founded by Johann and Wendy Smit, the orchard has grown from its roots in the Sierra Nevada foothills to become a staple at Bay Area farmers' markets, restaurants, and independent grocery stores. The orchard is known for its apples, cherries, blueberries, and pomegranates, and has expanded to include an urban agricultural hub in San Leandro, CA, and a family-friendly destination in Camino, CA, known as Apple Hill.

The orchard is committed to a zero-waste philosophy, which has led to the creation of various fruit products such as apple butter, applesauce, fruit extracts, and craft hard apple ciders. The environmentally sensitive approach ensures that the land is treated with care, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.

Hidden Star Orchards operates a taproom and bakery in Camino, CA, offering craft hard apple ciders, pastries, and a children's play area. The San Leandro location includes cold storage and a commercial kitchen and cidery. The orchard is a member of the Apple Hill Growers Association and participates in numerous Bay Area farmers' markets. The taproom offers tastings year-round with no reservations required, and the bakery serves classic apple cider doughnuts and other treats. A $5 parking fee is charged during Apple Hill's Harvest Season.