A Chef's Secret Roof Garden: The Fairmont Hotel - Gardenista
On the roof at San Francisco s Fairmont Hotel Chef J W Foster has four hives and an edible... ...garden growing citrus trees and classic Mediterranean herbs in dozens of raised beds that he raids for seasonal fresh ingredients The honey from the hives, which were installed by Marshall Farms, is used at teatime at the hotel, served with heavy cream and mixed in scones. Photographs by Marla Aufmuth for Gardenista. Foster, who grew up in Ontario, says he was Inspired by herb gardens at country inns in Canada to let leeks, thyme, and rosemary go to flower for the bees. The Fairmont’s bar serves an Old Fashioned made with house honey and a spring of rosemary. Foster arrived at the hotel two years ago. The bees pollinate other rooftop and backyard gardens in the neighborhood. Foster also grows citrus trees, which thrive in San Francisco’s cool, foggy climate. Trees in the terrace garden include Mediterranean lemons, as well as more exotic fruits such as Rangpur Lime. The hotel kitchen uses local micro-greens, like these carrot, sunflower, pea shoots, and amaranth. The Fairmont’s House Honey Bruschetta. Wondering what other San Francisco chefs are growing on their roofs?