Savor the Experience: The Green Orchid Restaurant Blooms at Sarasota’s Selby Gardens
Sarasota welcomes a new culinary gem nestled within one of its most beloved attractions. The Green Orchid, one of this year’s most anticipated dining destinations, has officially opened its doors at the downtown campus of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens on 1534 Mound St.
Operated by Michael’s on East, a renowned Sarasota fine-dining establishment and long-time food provider for Selby Gardens, The Green Orchid is a key element of the gardens’ recently unveiled phase one of its master plan. This restaurant is not just another addition to Sarasota’s dining scene; it’s an embodiment of sustainable dining practices and community engagement.
The Green Orchid is fully solar-powered, with plans to achieve net-positive energy, generating more energy than it consumes. A rooftop garden, maintained by Operation Eco Vets, a nonprofit offering growth opportunities for military veterans, will supply fresh produce for a menu that celebrates seasonal flavors.
Michael Klauber, co-proprietor of Michael’s on East, expressed his commitment to offering fresh and distinctive garden-to-table offerings. The restaurant’s menu, designed to showcase the best of Sarasota’s local produce, features dishes like The Green Orchid Salad, Cape Malay Street Tacos, and a Lavender-Infused Crème Brûlée. With a focus on sustainability, the kitchen is equipped with electric and induction cooking facilities, ensuring a reduced carbon footprint
Designed by James Beard Award winner Jimi Yui, the restaurant’s kitchen operates without gas or flames, relying instead on electromagnetic fields to heat pots and pans directly. The dining experience at The Green Orchid is not only about the food; it’s about the environment. The restaurant offers seating for up to 150 people, with both indoor and outdoor tables available for walk-up service.While no reservations are necessary, admission to Selby Gardens ($26 for adults, $11 for ages 5-17/member guests, free for members/ages 4 and under) is required to visit the restaurant. The Green Orchid is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit the website. The Green Orchid promises to be a culinary experience like no other, inviting guests to savor the flavors of sustainability and community at Sarasota’s iconic botanical gardens.
Photos from Facebook