Miami, FL – A beloved South Florida institution, Knaus Berry Farm, is set to embark on a transformative new chapter this fall, reopening under new ownership at a larger, more modern location. The news, which has been trending across local circles, assures loyal patrons that the iconic farm’s cherished traditions, from its legendary cinnamon buns to its fresh produce, will remain meticulously preserved, thanks to the continued involvement of the Knaus family and key longtime staff members.
A New Chapter for a South Florida Icon
Since 1956, Knaus Berry Farm has been a quintessential part of the Miami landscape, drawing generations of customers to its Homestead location for its unique blend of farm-fresh goods and delectable baked treats. Now, a local investment group has acquired the farm, with plans to relocate it just a few miles north to 16790 SW 177th Ave., situated on the expansive property of Sam S. Accursio & Sons Farms.
The new ownership group includes Joel White, formerly the vice president of marketing for Genuine Hospitality, who will step into the role of general manager for the revitalized Knaus Berry Farm. Local investor Sunil Bhatt, CEO and co-owner of Genuine Holdings, is also a key figure in this new venture. White has emphatically stated the group’s commitment to maintaining the farm’s classic offerings without compromise. “We are looking forward to carrying on the tradition the Knaus family has built with fresh handmade cinnamon buns, milkshakes, and produce,” White affirmed, highlighting the pledge to use the “same recipes, bakery equipment, and techniques. Even the water will have the same pH to ensure the product is delivered to our customers just as they know and love”.
Crucially, the Knaus family, who nurtured the farm for nearly 70 years, will remain deeply involved as consultants, ensuring that the integrity and quality of the bakery’s renowned recipes are upheld. Thomas Blocher, the longtime General Manager and former co-owner, will transition into a kitchen consultant role, providing invaluable expertise. Blocher is often credited with refining the farm’s signature cinnamon rolls, famously making them smaller to ensure every bite felt like the gooey middle. All current staff members are also expected to be offered positions at the new site, fostering a sense of continuity.
The Enduring Legacy of the Knaus Family
The history of Knaus Berry Farm is deeply rooted in the agricultural heritage of South Florida. Brothers Russell and Ray Knaus established the farm in 1956, initially as a modest roadside stand selling strawberries. It was Ray’s wife, Barbara Knaus, whose exceptional baking skills, particularly her cookies, led to the introduction of baked goods, eventually evolving into the highly sought-after cinnamon rolls and other treats. The Knaus family belongs to the German Baptist denomination, also known as Dunkers, a group often mistaken for the Amish due to their traditional lifestyle and farming practices. This rich family history and dedication to quality have solidified Knaus Berry Farm as a true landmark in the Miami area.
Modernizing a Beloved Tradition
While committed to preserving tradition, the new Knaus Berry Farm will introduce several significant enhancements aimed at improving the customer experience. For decades, patrons have endured famously long lines, a cash-only policy, and Sunday closures. The new location directly addresses these longstanding points of friction.
For the first time in its history, Knaus Berry Farm will be open on Sundays and will accept credit cards, eliminating the need for cash-only transactions and potentially alleviating the notorious Saturday crowds. The expanded new site promises more ample parking, a welcome change for visitors. Furthermore, an additional oven will be installed in the larger kitchen, a strategic move by the new ownership to increase capacity and, hopefully, shorten the often hours-long wait for the hot, fresh cinnamon rolls.
A Partnership Rooted in Agriculture
The relocation to the property of Sam S. Accursio & Sons Farms ensures that Knaus Berry Farm’s agricultural roots remain strong. The Accursio family also boasts a nearly 70-year history of farming in South Florida, making this a synergistic partnership. The new farm will continue to offer a wide array of fresh produce directly from the site, including green beans, squash, okra, pickling cucumbers, tomatoes, strawberries, and watermelon. Plans are also in place to reintroduce the popular U-pick strawberries in the near future, allowing visitors to engage directly with the farming experience.
Addressing Recent Challenges and Looking Ahead
The transition follows a challenging period for the Knaus family, including a personal tragedy in February 2023, when co-owner Rachel Grafe, daughter of co-founder Ray Knaus, passed away following an attack at her home. While the farm continued its seasonal operations through April 2025 at its old location, the move and change in ownership signal a new era.
Anticipation is high for the late fall 2025 opening of the new Knaus Berry Farm. This news represents not just the reopening of a beloved restaurant but also the thoughtful evolution of a cultural landmark. As South Florida continues to grow and change, the commitment to preserving the essence of Knaus Berry Farm while embracing necessary modernizations ensures that this iconic establishment will continue to be a cherished destination for many more decades, solidifying its place in Miami’s culinary news and history.
