Locally-Produced Food in Local Restaurants

Posted Jun 21, 2009 by Leigh Spann

Updated Jun 25, 2009 at 01:42 PM

Mise En Place has worked to include some locally-produced food on their menu.  The restaurant and a farm called “Uriah’s Farm” in Lithia, FL have partnered to bring fresh herbs and veggies to diners.  These include cilantro, basil, mint, arugula, spring mix, red romaine and assorted micro greens.

I recently visited “Uriah’s Farm” and toured the hydroponic facility.  All the herbs and lettuces are grown in water only…no soil.  Owner and operator, Dave Smiles, says this process is better for the environment.  It uses less than half the amount of water, and increases the productivity of the farm.  The only pesticides they use are lady bugs.  Farmer Dave says, “They’re ferocious carnivores, but hate any type of green or vegetation, so before we have any problems, we introduce these into the garden, and they keep any other pests that may find their way into the garden limited in number.”

You can order produce from Uriah’s Farm.  Give them a call 813-532-3601.  To visit their website…click here.  The farm is located at 9107 Lithia Pinecrest Road in Lithia, FL.

Look for the Uriah’s Farm salad on Mise En Place’s menu as well.  You will also find a “green zone” of wines at Mise En Place.  They are wines made with organic ingredients.  Both Uriah’s Farm and Mise En Place know the importance of locally-produce food for better TASTE and a smaller carbon footprint.  Click hereto find out more about Mise En Place.