Meet The Team

Ashley Evans

Ashley Evans is a proud Franklin County native, raised “on the hill” in Turners Falls, MA. A graduate of Turners Falls High School, she began her college journey in Worcester before relocating to Charlotte County, Florida, to be closer to her family.

Over the next 12 years, Ashley immersed herself in the restaurant industry in the Punta Gorda area, working a variety of roles that deepened her love for hospitality. In 2015, she and her partner opened their first restaurant, The Turtle Club—later renamed The Blue Turtle. It was their passion project, and the result of tireless work and dedication. With its success, they went on to open several more restaurants, including F.M. Don’s, The Pier, Turtle Bay (all in Punta Gorda), and The Glass Tavern in Schenectady, New York.

In 2022, during a visit to Western Massachusetts, Ashley learned that The Farm Table—a restaurant she had visited and loved on past trips—had closed and was for sale. Intrigued by the opportunity, she explored the possibilities, and soon a new collaboration was born.

Today, Ashley brings her years of experience, creativity, and entrepreneurial passion back to the region she calls home. When she’s not running the show at The Farm Table, she’s busy chasing after her three young children and dreaming up fun, unique events for the community. Her vision is to make The Farm Table a welcoming destination for all ages—a place to gather, celebrate, and make lasting memories.

Chef Thomas Matthews

I’m Chef Thomas Matthews, and it’s truly an honor to welcome you to The Farm Table.

My passion for cooking began early—at just seven years old, growing up in Western Massachusetts, I called Le Cordon Bleu to ask how I could enroll. I’ve known ever since that the kitchen is where I belong. Food runs deep in my family roots—my grandmother was a nutritionist, and my grandfather served as a chef in the Navy—so I learned early on that food is both nourishment and connection.

Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked in kitchens across the country, from rustic pubs to aspiring Michelin-starred restaurants in places like Lafayette, Louisiana, and Brooklyn, New York. Now, I’m thrilled to bring that full spectrum of experience home to Western Mass.

At The Farm Table, we aim to offer a menu that celebrates both elevated New England fare and the local bounty of our region. Whether it’s a comforting classic or an inspired seasonal dish, everything we serve is crafted with care and purpose.

For me—and for our entire team—food is about more than flavor. It’s about creating memories, sharing stories, and celebrating the people we love. We can’t wait to serve you.

Amanda Murphy

Born and raised right here in town, Amanda brings a genuine love for the community—and the people in it—to everything she does behind the bar. Known for her laid-back charm, sharp sense of humor, and cocktails that strike the perfect balance, Amanda believes great drinks start with fresh ingredients, local flavor, and a whole lot of heart.

From seasonal specials infused with herbs grown just down the road to signature creations that keep regulars coming back, Amanda’s craft is all about creating drinks that feel as good as they taste. When she’s not behind the bar, you’ll likely find her enjoying a margarita on the patio, soaking in the simple joys of small-town life.