At Newfields, our food is equal parts art and nature, and lately it’s more intertwined with our campus than you might think. Seasonal plantings complement our menus by providing sustenance and local flavor.

The ongoing dialogue between the horticulture and culinary department exemplifies how thoughtful planning, creativity, and teamwork can transform a landscape into more than just a visual masterpiece—it becomes a living pantry that nourishes the community in both taste and inspiration.

It’s all made possible by close collaboration between the Horticulture and internal Culinary team. Visitors often experience the fruits of this partnership without realizing the behind-the-scenes work that goes into it.

Special events, Beer Garden and LUME Café offerings, and monthly programming showcase what the grounds have to offer at every season, turning fresh produce into memorable culinary experiences.

The collaboration brings The Garden to life in ways that delight both the eyes and the palate. Throughout the year, the two teams work closely to identify, grow, and harvest a wide variety of herbs, fruits, vegetables, and edible flowers across the gardens. For instance, you can still spot some tomatoes on the vine by our Beer Garden planters.

We’ve started meeting more regularly and planning seasonal plantings together, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, high-quality ingredients that the culinary team can incorporate into menus, special events, and seasonal offerings. This partnership allows the museum to highlight locally grown flavors while also emphasizing sustainability and resourcefulness.

The synergy between these departments extends beyond simply providing ingredients. The culinary team shares insight into which flavors, textures, and quantities are most useful for menu development, while horticulturists provide guidance on what will thrive in The Garden’s unique conditions.

Oftentimes, the horticulture team brings awareness to new ingredients that are unfamiliar to the culinary team, helping expand the range of flavors and dishes they create. From edible flowers for desserts to unique herbs for beverages and savory dishes, this ongoing collaboration ensures that the menus reflect both the seasons and the exceptional gardens at Newfields.