The High Life & A Taste of Sustainability at The Green Orchid
On a hot summer day, the shaded paths of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offer a refreshing escape. A stroll through the gardens reveals not only stunning natural beauty but also the intricate connections that sustain our environment. The current exhibition, "The High Life: Contemporary Photography and the Birds," features nearly 70 works by over 50 international photographers. It showcases the symbiotic relationship between birds and flowers while celebrating the vital role of pollinators.
After appreciating the vibrant imagery, our Salaverri-Windsor team enjoyed a delicious lunch at The Green Orchid by Michael's on East, located at Selby. This casual yet refined dining spot offers a sustainable, globally inspired menu that features local and seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and its rooftop garden.
We ordered three entrees from the "sustainable" menu to share: the beautifully presented Cape Malay Taco, which featured seared Gulf shrimp in soft taco shells, accompanied by chipotle aioli and charred corn pico de gallo, served with Yuca fries. We also enjoyed Phil's Lobster Roll, which was packed with fresh and flavorful Maine lobster enhanced by lime zest, accompanied by slaw and fries. To round out our meal, we shared a vegetarian dish, Jennifer's "Rooftop Garden" Salad, made with organic greens topped with blue cheese crumbles, dried figs, and candied pecans, all drizzled with a delicate poppy seed vinaigrette.
The Green Orchid also features a cocktail program inspired by botanicals, with herbs sourced locally, along with a wine list that includes many organic and sustainable options.
Notably, The Green Orchid is the world's first net-positive energy restaurant, demonstrating how culinary excellence can align with environmental stewardship.
Reservations are not required, and both indoor and outdoor walk-in service is available exclusively for visitors and members of Selby Gardens.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota Campus
1534 Mound Street
Sarasota, FL 34236
Map & Directions
941.366.5731
