US. HMSHost has opened the first airport concept by Tender Greens – the casual eatery known for its chef-driven, farmer’s market dishes – at San Diego International Airport.
Opened on 18 September in the Commuter Terminal, Garden by Tender Greens is said to be an airport-adapted version of the local farm-to-fork restaurants, known for their “slow food done fast” philosophy and farmer’s market fresh sensibility. It offers fresh-picked produce from Scarborough Farms, hormone- and antibiotic-free Mary’s Chicken, grass-fed beef, heritage pork, Pacific salmon, seasonal vegetables from local farms and fresh baked breads from local artisan bakery Con Pane Rustic Bread.
“We’re dedicated to providing the finest ingredients to our customers at a fair value, and we’ll bring that same commitment to the quality of the food that guests are used to experiencing at Tender Greens restaurants,” said Owner/Co-Founder Erik Oberholtzer. “Travellers will be excited to find thoughtful food at our restaurant that is chef-driven, made-from-scratch and wholesome.”
HMSHost Vice President of Business Development Anthony Alessi added: “We are very excited to bring the healthy, fresh dining experience of Garden by Tender Greens to travellers at San Diego Airport. Garden’s high quality, locally-sourced ingredients combine to make the perfect meal for travellers who have time to dine in or those rushing to catch a flight.”
 |
A rendering of the new Garden by Tender Greens in San Diego International Airport |
A new and noteworthy element at Garden will be its churrasco, a Brazilian-style grill that cooks meat on rotating skewers, allowing the meat to cook thoroughly and stay moist, fresh and hot. This is the first time a churrasco has been used at an airport, HMSHost claimed.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Garden’s menu will offer a light breakfast selection designed for travellers on-the-go including Strauss organic yogurt and bacon and eggs with Weiser Family Farms potatoes.
The daytime menu will offer a choice of protein or veggies, in a Panini or on a salad and soups. In addition guests will find a variety of chef-composed salads, such as organic kale with shaved baby beets, rainbow carrots and roasted garlic vinaigrette and Little Gem Lettuces with avocado, queso fresco, cilantro and lime vinaigrette. For those with a sweet tooth, Garden will offer a selection of house-made baked goods and locally sourced coffee. Prices range from US$5 to US$12 per item.
Besides made-to-order items, Garden also offers grab-and-go options for the busy traveller who may not have time to sit and enjoy a meal. In addition, it will feature a full bar with hand-crafted cocktails, California wine and San Diego craft beer.
Established in June 2006, Tender Greens is a privately held company which aims to provide sustainable foods to its guests in a relaxed, eco-friendly space. Tender Greens currently has 12 California locations across Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County and the Bay Area.
