STOWE, VT.—One of Stowe’s oldest inns has gotten fresh and gone green by joining the Vermont Fresh Network. By partnering with local farmers and food producers to add native ingredients to its restaurants, they’re helping strengthen and preserve the state’s agriculture base. Going local is also part of their long-term sustainability plan.
“The name ‘Vermont Fresh’ says it all—the freshest, highest quality ingredients, all grown or produced right here in Vermont,” said innkeeper Patti Clark. “Customers have long recognized the Vermont brand means quality. Here at the Green Mountain Inn, diners now have food choices with meaning, value and a true taste of Vermont.”
The Vermont Fresh organization is a statewide nonprofit network supporting local farmers and food producers by linking them with chefs, restaurants and consumers as outlets for their products. Both the Green Mountain Inn’s Main Street Dining Room and Whip Bar and Grill feature Vermont items on their menus.
“The biggest benefit of Vermont Fresh is dealing directly with the people who produce the food,” said Steven Truso, Green Mountain Inn director of food and beverage. “Because we know where our products are coming from, we know we’re getting the freshest, highest quality items possible. We’re also supporting local communities and keeping farmlands open.”
Inn’s Menu Expanded
Truso says the Green Mountain Inn has added several new menu items and continues to feature local Vermont products from Misty Knoll Farm in New Haven, Grafton Village Cheese, Vermont Butter and Cheese Company in Barre, and Pete’s Greens in Craftsbury. Some of these suppliers are located just down the road.
“Buying local through Vermont Fresh makes sense in so many ways,” added Clark. “Guests enjoy an authentic Vermont dining experience and independent suppliers are able to realize sustainable living.”
She also stressed their objective to function as an eco-friendly business and lessen the environmental impact of their operations. Other sustainability efforts include an extensive recycling program, measures to reduce harmful chemicals and waste, and plans to seek alternative energy sources.
Located in Stowe village, the historic Green Mountain Inn has been providing country lodgings to guests for more than 175 years. For additional information, visit www.GreenMountainInn.com.
