Embracing Farm-to-Table: A Sustainable Dining Experience at Crocodile Grill & Bar
At Crocodile Grill & Bar, we believe that great food starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients. That’s why we’ve fully embraced the farm-to-table philosophy, ensuring that the produce on your plate is as fresh as possible, sustainably sourced, and bursting with flavor. Our commitment to sustainable dining is at the heart of everything we do, and it’s showcased in every dish we serve.
The Crocodile Gardens Project
Our journey towards sustainable dining begins at Crocodile Gardens, our state-of-the-art greenhouse. Here, we grow nearly 80% of all the produce used in our salads, entrees, and other dishes. This project is not just about sustainability; it’s about bringing the freshest, most flavorful ingredients directly from our garden to your table.
What We Grow
In our greenhouse, we cultivate a wide variety of produce, including:
- Corn
- Mangos
- Apples
- Romaine Lettuce
- Basil, Parsley, Cilantro
- Green and Red Peppers
- Panama Peppers, Habaneros, Jalapenos
- Eggplant
- Green Onions
- Leafy Greens, Kale, Arugula
Our goal is to eventually grow 100% of all the produce we use at the restaurant. This allows us to maintain strict quality control and ensure that every ingredient meets our high standards.
Sustainable Practices
Our greenhouse utilizes a combination of traditional and modern farming techniques to maximize efficiency and sustainability. We employ carbon beds and hydroponic systems, which use less water and produce higher yields compared to conventional farming methods. This ensures that our farming practices are eco-friendly, reducing our carbon footprint while providing the freshest ingredients possible.
A Chef’s Vision
The mastermind behind our farm-to-table approach is our head chef, Justin Hidalgo. With an extensive resume and a passion for fresh, local ingredients, Justin has crafted a dining experience that highlights the best of Costa Rican cuisine. He believes in the importance of controlling the quality of all our ingredients, and his hands-on approach in the greenhouse ensures that every dish is made with the freshest produce available.
The Dining Experience
When you dine at Crocodile Grill & Bar, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re experiencing the fruits of our labor in the Crocodile Gardens. Our farm-to-table approach means that you’re getting ingredients that are often harvested the same day they’re served. This results in dishes that are not only fresh but also packed with nutrients and flavor.
Our Commitment to the Community
Supporting local farmers and using sustainable practices is part of our commitment to the community. By growing our own produce and sourcing other ingredients locally, we’re able to support local agriculture and reduce our environmental impact. It’s a win-win situation that benefits both our guests and the environment.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to expand our greenhouse and refine our farm-to-table practices, we’re excited about the future. Our plans include growing a wider variety of produce and incorporating more seasonal items into our menu. We’re also looking forward to hosting special events and dinners that highlight the fresh ingredients from our greenhouse.
Join us at Crocodile Grill & Bar and taste the difference that fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients can make. Our commitment to farm-to-table dining ensures that every meal is a celebration of flavor and sustainability. Come and experience it for yourself!