In the heart of Memphis’ Evergreen neighborhood, Ecco on Overton Park is exemplary of culinary excellence and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Amidst the flavorful tapestry of dishes, a quiet revolution against food waste is taking shape – a narrative of change not just in numbers but in a philosophy that’s reshaping the way food is valued and utilized.
Ecco’s journey towards sustainable dining began with its partnership with Project Green Fork, leading to its PGF certification. The commitment continued as they enthusiastically joined the PGF’s 901 Save the Food Restaurant Challenge as a Challenge Champion. The results of a comprehensive waste assessment conducted by the PGF team uncovered opportunities for impactful reduction strategies, with the potential to influence up to 36% of the assessed materials.
In response to this revelation, Ecco embraced the Challenge with creativity at its core. The restaurant prioritized staff training, ensuring that every team member grasped the intrinsic value of each ingredient and the significance of mindful usage. Ecco stood out by inviting the PGF team to present food waste materials and individual assessments directly to its kitchen staff, showcasing a level of impressive engagement.
Repurposing became an artistic pursuit, transforming surplus ingredients into culinary masterpieces featured in daily specials or family meals. A notable example was the innovative use of bourbon-soaked pecans from the bar in a new cake recipe. Additionally, Ecco implemented new produce storage methods to preserve freshness and minimize waste. Even the juice from peeled citrus found purpose, either adorning cocktails or enhancing back-of-house service.
But Ecco’s impact can be felt beyond the establishment’s walls. Since partnering with PGF, the restaurant has been donating surplus food to communities in need. Its donations are not only acts of goodwill – they are catalysts for change, ensuring the nourishment of patrons while also supporting the community.
The 901 Save the Food Restaurant Challenge fosters innovative strategies within eateries, transforming practices toward sustainable and efficient operations. These shifts in practice embody an evolution in how restaurants perceive food, waste, and their role in shaping a sustainable future. Ecco has fostered a lasting mindset – a commitment that transcends a one-time challenge has become ingrained in its culinary philosophy.
Ecco is redefining the narrative around food waste through dedication and perseverance. It is saving food and transforming it into a force for good, nurturing a culture where every ingredient, every meal, holds potential. In this culinary haven, each dish is a step toward a more sustainable future.
