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Dining with a Conscience Sustainability in Our
Dining with a conscience is at the heart of our culinary philosophy, where sustainability meets exquisite
Chef Elena Marquez
At Bistro, we believe that dining should not only delight the senses but also nurture the planet. Our commitment to sustainability guides every decision we make, from the ingredients we source to the methods we use in our kitchen. We are passionate about creating delicious meals that are as good for the environment as they are for you. Here’s how we are making a difference, one dish at a time.
1. Sourcing Locally and Seasonally
One of the most effective ways to reduce our carbon footprint is by sourcing our ingredients locally and seasonally. By partnering with local farmers, fishermen, and artisans, we ensure that our ingredients travel fewer miles from the field to your plate, reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation. For example, our Farm-to-Table Salad features only the freshest, locally grown vegetables, harvested at their peak to ensure maximum flavor and minimal environmental impact.
By embracing seasonal produce, we also celebrate the natural rhythms of the earth. Our menu changes throughout the year, reflecting what is fresh and in season. This not only supports local farmers but also reduces the need for energy-intensive practices like heating greenhouses or importing out-of-season produce from far away.
2. Reducing Food Waste
Food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and we are committed to minimizing waste in every aspect of our operations. In our kitchen, we practice nose-to-tail cooking and root-to-leaf cooking, using every part of the animal and plant to create flavorful, innovative dishes. Our Whole Roasted Carrot Tart uses the entire carrot — from the sweet, roasted roots to the zesty, nutrient-rich carrot tops — ensuring nothing goes to waste.
We also utilize creative preservation methods, such as pickling, fermenting, and curing, to extend the shelf life of ingredients and reduce waste. Our House-Made Pickles and Fermented Hot Sauce are delicious examples of how these techniques help us turn surplus produce into flavorful menu items.
3. Sustainable Seafood Choices
Our commitment to sustainability extends to the seafood we serve. We work closely with suppliers who follow sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that the fish and seafood on our menu are responsibly sourced. This means choosing species that are abundant and fished or farmed in ways that do not harm the ocean’s ecosystems.
For example, our Pan-Seared Arctic Char is sourced from a local fishery that practices sustainable, low-impact aquaculture. We avoid overfished species and prioritize seafood that is caught or farmed using methods that minimize bycatch and environmental impact.
4. Eco-Friendly Packaging and Practices
Beyond what’s on the plate, we are also committed to reducing waste through eco-friendly practices. We use compostable or recyclable packaging for takeout orders, and our in-house dining experience is designed to minimize the use of single-use plastics. Our staff is trained to separate waste correctly, ensuring that compostable and recyclable materials are properly sorted and processed.
Additionally, we have introduced water-saving measures in our kitchen and front-of-house, including low-flow faucets and efficient dishwashing techniques, to reduce our overall water usage.
5. Energy Efficiency in the Kitchen
Our commitment to sustainability includes making our kitchen as energy-efficient as possible. We have invested in energy-efficient appliances and equipment that reduce our electricity consumption. For example, our induction cooktops use less energy than traditional gas ranges, and our LED lighting system reduces electricity usage throughout the restaurant.
We also strive to minimize our energy footprint by carefully planning our cooking schedules, optimizing oven and stovetop usage, and turning off appliances when not in use. These small changes add up to significant energy savings, helping us reduce our carbon footprint.
6. Embracing Plant-Based Options
Plant-based eating is a powerful way to reduce environmental impact, and we are proud to offer a range of delicious plant-based options on our menu. Our chefs are passionate about using fresh, local vegetables, grains, and legumes to create dishes that are both healthy and satisfying. From our Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger to our Lentil and Quinoa Salad, each plant-based dish is crafted with care to showcase the natural flavors of the ingredients.
By incorporating more plant-based options, we help reduce the demand for resource-intensive animal farming, which is a major contributor to deforestation, water use, and greenhouse gas emissions.
7. Supporting a Sustainable Community
At Bistro, we believe that sustainability is about more than just our practices; it’s about supporting the community around us. We are committed to building relationships with local farmers, producers, and artisans who share our values and dedication to sustainable practices. This not only helps us source the freshest, highest-quality ingredients but also supports the local economy and fosters a network of like-minded businesses.
We also host regular events, such as farm-to-table dinners and sustainability workshops, to engage our guests and raise awareness about the importance of sustainable dining.
8. Composting and Recycling
To further reduce our environmental footprint, we have implemented a robust composting and recycling program. All of our kitchen scraps are composted, turning waste into valuable soil for local farms and gardens. We also recycle glass, paper, and plastic, ensuring that as little waste as possible ends up in the landfill.
Our efforts extend to educating our staff and customers about the importance of composting and recycling, encouraging everyone who comes through our doors to join us in our commitment to a greener future.
Join Us in Dining Sustainably
At Bistro, sustainability is not just a trend — it’s a core value that guides every decision we make. We invite you to dine with us and enjoy a meal that is not only delicious but also thoughtfully sourced and prepared with care for the environment. Together, we can enjoy great food while making a positive impact on the planet.