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OUR STORY

On February 18, 2024, we opened the doors to, The Exchange 1874, a farm-to-fork dining venue showcasing seasonal, local, regional ingredients highlighting the rich variety of American cuisine. We are committed to having a menu that reflects the seasonal harvests of our region, and we will rotate three menus annually around the seasons. 

 

The name, The Exchange 1874, derives from the local lore of a unique restaurant concept called, “The Bank Exchange.”  The Bank Exchange restaurant was established in the late 1800’s and quickly became a prominent gathering place for farmers, ranchers, and traders in the Central Valley. It was located in San Joaquin County, a county known for its agricultural activity and as a hub for the region's commerce. 

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At the Bank Exchange restaurant, farmers and ranchers could enjoy a meal at the restaurant and pay with

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their agricultural products instead of cash. They could bring in fresh produce, meat, poultry, dairy products, or other goods, which the restaurant would accept as payment. These items would then be used in the restaurant's meals and sold to other patrons.

 

The Exchange 1874 likewise recognizes the importance of agriculture in the Central Valley and we are striving to be a symbol of our region's agricultural heritage by developing strategic relationships with the farming community. 

 

We are committed to using seasonal, local, and regional ingredients in all our dishes. We believe the ingredients matter. We also adhere to transparency in our menus. We want our patrons to know where our ingredients comes from; i.e., our neighbor farmers and friends. 

Get in Touch

Meet Our 
Team

We are committed to having a menu that reflects the seasonal harvests of our region.

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Allen Sawyer

Managing Owner

Allen Sawyer is a serial entrepreneur, lawyer, and restaurateur known for his diverse business ventures and legal expertise in criminal and injury litigation....

Ruby Lopez

Executive Chef

Ruby Lopez, a renowned regional chef, grew up on the vibrant East side of Lodi, CA, surrounded by hardworking families and the challenges of gang and drug influences. Her family's connection to the United Farm Workers exposed her to ...

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Dave Royce

Partner

Dave Royce, a true son of the soil, born into a third-generation farming family. David's roots in agriculture run deep, shaping his life and career in profound ways.

Yohana Canabrava

General Manager

Yohana Canabrava, a 28-year-old Brazilian from Franco da Rocha, São Paulo, has embraced learning despite limited opportunities in her small town. With her parents' blue collar professions, she attended private schools and excelled in English and Spanish.....

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