Chef Jasen Fontaine Serves Ingredients Grown in Marriott's Backyard

MINNEAPOLIS, July 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Minneapolis Marriott Southwest head chef, Jasen Fontaine, is now using a hydroponic garden to grow fresh herbs and vegetables served at Stacy's Grill, a Minnetonka restaurant inside the hotel.

Fontaine originally wanted to create a garden on the hotel roof.

"Due to planning and time, I was not able to get it all together in time, so this year, I started to talk about what I wanted to do toward the end of winter," he said.

Fontaine discovered a steam room in the hotel, which he said seemed like a perfect system for hydroponics, a method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions rather than soil.

"We now grow lettuce, three types of basil, red and green peppers, jalapeno peppers, habanera pepper, cilantro and parsley in the hydroponic garden," Fontaine said.

Fontaine also built a green house in the hotel's backyard. Zucchini, yellow squash, heirloom tomatoes and cucumbers grow inside.

In the weeks since harvesting began, Fontaine and his staff have used more than 20 pounds of basil and 15 pounds of heirloom lettuce in the restaurant and for Minnetonka events at the hotel.

Fontaine also makes soda in-house and plans to produce honey and brew craft beer in the future. He hopes these additions continue to make Minneapolis Marriott Southwest a fresh, local and vibrant destination.

About Minneapolis Marriott Southwest
Experience a re-energized hotel near Minneapolis, nestled amongst trees and walking paths, yet close to highways and attractions. Upon entering Minneapolis Marriott Southwest, a premier hotel in Minnetonka, MN, guests are greeted with the contemporary design of the M.I.Greatroom, a perfect spot to work or play. Feel at home in our spacious Bloomington accommodations and suites, featuring plush Revive bedding and 37-inch flat-screen TVs. Explore exciting amenities, including a health club and heated indoor pool, or enjoy a bite to eat at Stacy's Grille, our eclectic restaurant in Minnetonka, MN. With more than 14,000 square feet of meeting space, Minneapolis Marriott Southwest is the ultimate venue for large corporate retreats and intimate social gatherings.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-888-887-1681 or visit www.marriott.com/mspwe.

SOURCE Minneapolis Marriott Southwest