Beef it up

Here's a tasty option for those seeking locally raised meat to throw on the summer barbecue: Lucky Dog Ranch. Located in Dixon and owned by Terri and Ron Gilliland, Lucky Dog Ranch raises cattle “humanely”—allowing them to graze in herds on pastures—and without hormones, stimulants or steroids. The beef is dry-aged and vacuum sealed before being sold in local markets (including Taylor's Market and Elliott's Natural Foods) and at farmers markets (Saturday at Country Club Plaza and Sunday at Eighth and W streets). If you want to sample before buying, head to Roxy Restaurant & Bar or Lucca Restaurant & Bar—owned by the Gillilands—which both offer Lucky Dog Ranch beef burgers as well as a few other options featuring the ranch's meat. And for foodies who only serve organic meat to their dogs, the business also offers a few treats specifically for canines. Visit www.luckydogranchbeef.com for more information.