Urban nature

It is no secret that we are seeing a huge resurgence in gardening and green living, as showcased in VISI issue 59. With the current, worldwide focus and media hype surrounding eco-footprints and environmentally friendly alternatives, people are increasingly embracing the trend for organic, local produce and a need for green space. 

In days gone by, living amongst plants and nature was reserved for those in the suburbs or on farms, but the situation is rapidly changing. We love that gardens are invading even the smallest apartment blocks, interior spaces and rooftops, allowing everyone to have their slice of the green pie. Latest on the block to adopt the trend is the four-star Upper Eastside Hotel in Woodstock, which recently launched an organic herb and vegetable rooftop garden, with the help of Urban Harvest Edible Gardens. 

The great project is the result of executive chef Simon Kemp’s desire to serve guests fresh, healthy food using local ingredients. The first of its kind for an urban South African hotel, the garden was established in February 2012, and only two months later it already supplies 80 percent of the herbs needed for the hotel’s busy Liberty restaurant. The 90 square metre garden, consisting of 42 wooden planter boxes houses about 40 varieties of herbs, vegetables and flowers. From commonplace basil, parsley, and cherry tomatoes to the more exotic pak choi, granadilla, and lemongrass, the varied selection has been tested to withstand Cape Town’s harsh weather conditions.

The freshly grown produce has been widely incorporated into the restaurant’s new winter menu. Amongst the varied fare on offer, we particularly liked fennel and ouzo mussels, goats cheese bruschetta with pesto and the particularly wonderful white tomato soup.

We’re avid fans of the concept and can only hope that more establishments in Cape Town and countrywide will follow suit. If you happen to be in the area or live locally, make sure to go and check it out. We hope you get inspired: if a project like this can happen in a gritty, urban environment Woodstock, it can happen anywhere!

More info: www.uppereastsidehotel.co.za