Welcome to Crocodile Gardens

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From Farm to Fork: Crocodile Grill & Bar’s Crocodile Gardens Project

At Crocodile Grill & Bar, our commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience is rooted in sustainability and quality. A cornerstone of this commitment is our innovative Crocodile Gardens Project, where we grow nearly 80 percent of the produce used in our dishes, from fresh salads to delectable entrees. This initiative allows us to offer our guests the freshest ingredients while significantly reducing our environmental footprint and supporting local agriculture.

A Bounty of Fresh Produce

Crocodile Gardens is a thriving hub of diverse crops that reflect the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica:

  • Vegetables: Our gardens nurture a variety of vegetables, including corn, eggplant, green onions, leafy greens, kale, and arugula.
  • Fruits: We grow succulent mangoes and crisp apples, adding natural sweetness to our dishes.
  • Herbs: A rich assortment of herbs such as basil, parsley, and cilantro are cultivated to enhance our culinary creations.
  • Peppers: A rainbow of peppers, including green and red bell peppers, Panama peppers, habaneros, and jalapeños, brings bold flavors to our menu.
  • Lettuce: Fresh romaine and other leafy varieties form the foundation of our salads.

With plans to eventually grow 100 percent of our produce on-site, our dedication to expanding and refining our agricultural practices is unwavering.

The Visionary Behind Crocodile Gardens: Chef Justin Hidalgo

At the helm of this ambitious project is our head chef, Justin Hidalgo. With an impressive culinary resume and a passion for sustainable gastronomy, Chef Justin brings a wealth of expertise to Crocodile Grill & Bar. He is dedicated to crafting unique dining experiences that introduce guests from all over the world to the rich and diverse flavors of Costa Rican cuisine.

In our bustling kitchen, Justin’s commitment to excellence is palpable. His brother, who serves as his sous chef, shares this dedication, ensuring that the kitchen buzzes with activity around the clock. Whether it’s baking fresh bread, preparing vibrant fruit dishes, or setting up meticulous mise en place, the kitchen is a hive of creativity and precision.

Head Chef Holding a Meat Skewer with Live Musician

Advanced Sustainable Garden Technology

Our cutting-edge Crocodile Gardens employs several advanced technologies to ensure efficient and sustainable farming practices:

  1. Hydroponic Systems:

    • Nutrient Film Technique (NFT): This system delivers a thin film of nutrient-rich water over the roots of plants, providing a continuous supply of nutrients, water, and oxygen.
  2. Irrigation and Water Management:

    • Drip Irrigation: This precise method delivers water directly to plant roots, minimizing waste and ensuring efficient water use.
    • Rainwater Harvesting: Collected rainwater supplements our irrigation needs, reducing reliance on external water sources.
  3. Sustainable Practices:

    • Composting Systems: Organic waste from the kitchen and garden is composted to create nutrient-rich soil amendments, closing the sustainability loop.
    • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Natural predators and organic treatments control pests, ensuring healthy crops without harmful chemicals.

Sustainability Meets Culinary Excellence

The Crocodile Gardens Project is more than just an eco-friendly initiative; it’s a chef’s dream realized. Chef Justin candidly admits that while sustainability is essential, having control over the quality of ingredients is incredibly exciting. It ensures consistently fresh and flavorful dishes that elevate the dining experience at Crocodile Grill & Bar.

Our gardens, with their carbon beds and hydroponic systems, are a place where the entire staff can flex their green thumbs and focus on efficient, sustainable farming. As we expand and innovate, we look forward to offering even more exclusive dining events and seasonal menus on a regular basis.

A Future of Fresh, Exclusive Culinary Experiences

Looking ahead, we plan to expand Crocodile Gardens and introduce new, exclusive culinary experiences and seasonal menus. It’s an exciting time at Crocodile Grill & Bar, and we’re thrilled to share this journey with you. We invite you to join us and experience the incredible flavors that come straight from our gardens to your table.

Join Us at Crocodile Grill & Bar

At Crocodile Grill & Bar, our commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence is evident in every dish we serve. Crocodile Gardens is a testament to this dedication, and we can’t wait for you to taste the difference. Come and experience a dining adventure like no other, where every meal is crafted with the freshest, most flavorful ingredients, grown right here at our restaurant.

Visit us and discover why Crocodile Grill & Bar is a true gem in Dominical, Costa Rica. We look forward to welcoming you!