Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge will be breaking ground on a new farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the beauty of the gardens and the bounty of local California ingredients.
In partnership with acclaimed Chef Richard Mead, The Farmhouse at Descanso Gardens is expected to open in late 2024, said a Descanso Gardens statement on Monday.
“Farmhouse at Descanso will offer a truly enchanting culinary experience that intertwines the serenity of nature with the vibrant flavors of locally-sourced ingredients,” Juliann Rooke, CEO of Descanso Gardens, said. “From the crisp greens harvested from local gardens to the savory meats sourced from nearby farms, each ingredient is thoughtfully selected to ensure a dining experience that not only nourishes the body but also nourishes the soul.”
Rooke said every dish in the restaurant will “tell a story of sustainability and farm-to-table ethos,” celebrating the essence of our surroundings while delighting the palate.
The Farmhouse at Descanso Gardens will be located in the Courtyard, with both indoor and outdoor seating available in a picturesque setting. An indoor/outdoor bar will be crafted from fallen trees reclaimed from the gardens, providing a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying wines and signature cocktails.
“Descanso holds a special place in my heart, and I’ve been endlessly inspired by its beauty and the changing seasons,” Chef Mead said. “I’m excited to create a dining experience that captures the essence of the Gardens and celebrates its unique charm throughout the year.”
The dining room will foster connection and conversation, with an open kitchen allowing diners to observe chefs preparing their meals. A side patio will offer a more intimate, immersive setting surrounded by lush landscapes and tables crafted from recycled wood.
Descanso’s horticultural staff will enhance the restaurant’s ambiance with seasonal plant installations that evolve throughout the year, offering a dynamic dining experience. Chef Mead’s commitment to local, sustainable ingredients will be evident in every dish, showcasing the best of California’s culinary bounty.
The bar will offer seasonal drinks reflecting the beauty of nature. Chef Mead has strong connections to boutique farmers throughout Southern California, including a partnership with the Tehachapi Heritage Grain Project, which aims to preserve and grow heritage organic grains used in his cobblers and other desserts.
Farmhouse at Descanso will be open for lunch and dinner, with seasonal events planned. It will also be available for special events.
Chef Mead said he plans to share his expertise through recipes and insights on social media, inviting guests to bring the Farmhouse experience into their own homes.
Descanso Gardens is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults; $11 for seniors and students with a school I.D.; $5 for children 5 to 12, and free for children under 5.
Members of Descanso Gardens enjoy free admission and early entry year-round. For more information about being a member, call (818) 949-4200 or visit www.descansogardens.org.
