Thurso-based Socially Growing sells veg to award-winning restaurants
Thurso-based social enterprise Socially Growing is celebrating a notable achievement after selling some of its produce to local restaurants.
It has been hailed as a "momentous leap forward" for the organisation in its bid to financially support Thurso Community Development Trust.
The sale of courgettes other produce, such as edible flowers, herbs, tomatoes and cucumbers, follows an event at which local chefs were invited to see the Socially Growing greenhouses and gain first-hand knowledge about the project.
Within a few weeks, the organisation was delighted to receive orders from two award-winning restaurants – Bydand, in Thurso, and the Captain's Galley, at Scrabster. Both share Socially Growing's commitment to sustainable practices.
Sharon Dismore, lead grower for Socially Growing, said: "I am excited to see our produce being embraced by these local establishments, ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy our harvest."
A highlight is the use of Socially Growing produce in an acclaimed seafood dish served at the Captain's Galley – tempura flowering courgette stuffed with scallop mousseline.
Brian Gordon, owner/chef at Bydand Restaurant, is also happy to be using the local produce.
After collecting his second order, he said: “I would like to thank Sharon and the Socially Growing team for allowing me to use their beautiful and fresh produce at Bydand.”
Sharon added: "These sales signify progress towards achieving our financial goals and reinforce our role as a catalyst for positive change within the community.
"We are grateful to all those who have embraced our produce and we look forward to continuing to please customers."
The news comes a few weeks before an open day at the Socially Growing greenhouses on Saturday, August 12. The greenhouses are located next to the Olrig Street gardens, with access from Beach Road.
Members of the public, as well as chefs and café owners, are invited to attend.
Visitors to Thurso are encouraged to make a stop at the Socially Growing zero-waste refill shop in Rotterdam Street.