Discussing with L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
Chef Fred Berkmiller of L'Escargot Bleu Embraces Pasture-Raised Meat and Homegrown Produce
French chef Fred Berkmiller, the culinary mastermind behind Edinburgh's L'Escargot Bleu, is a firm advocate for Pasture for Life approved meat and homegrown produce. This commitment to sustainable farming practices has earned him multiple awards and a loyal following.
Becoming Pasture for Life approved signifies a dedication to animal welfare, regenerative farming, and ethical sourcing. By ensuring that animals graze solely on pasture, the welfare of these animals is prioritized, leading to healthier, happier animals and higher-quality produce. This focus on sustainability supports environmental sustainability and enhances the restaurant's offerings and reputation.
Berkmillier is passionate about sourcing ethical meat and produce for both himself and his customers. He values direct contact with farmers, which he finds essential in making informed decisions about the ingredients he uses. This personal connection allows him to work closely with farmers, taste a wide variety of produce, and ensure the highest quality ingredients are used in his dishes.
One of Berkmiller's most popular dishes, the boeuf bourguignon, is made with chuck and blade, cooked three times in a beef stock that has simmered for four days. The use of Pasture for Life approved meat ensures the dish's flavour is enhanced, making it a standout offering at L'Escargot Bleu.
Customers are increasingly interested in the provenance and transparency of their food. Berkmiller's strong relationships with Pasture for Life certified farmers demonstrate his commitment to transparency and his customers' trust in the quality of the ingredients used in his dishes.
In addition to his garden, Berkmiller partners with a butcher who sources Pasture for Life cattle on his behalf and does all the butchering. The produce grown in his garden is used in the restaurant, with any excess sold in the butcher's shop. While a Pasture for Life wholesale distributor might make buying Pasture for Life meat more accessible, Berkmiller values the personal connection that comes with working directly with farmers.
The name "Pasture for Life" signifies the health of the animals, customers, and soil. By choosing to use Pasture for Life approved meat and homegrown produce, Berkmiller is not only promoting the health of his customers but also supporting the health of the environment.
Berkmillier's dedication to sustainable, ethical food production sets a high standard for the restaurant industry. By advocating for Pasture for Life approval and prioritizing natural ingredients, he is demonstrating that it is possible to run a successful restaurant while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and ethical food production.
[1] Pasture for Life [2] L'Escargot Bleu [3] Interview with Fred Berkmiller
- Chef Fred Berkmiller, responsible for L'Escargot Bleu's renowned dishes, showcases his commitment to ethical meat through his preference for Pasture for Life approved meat, which prioritizes animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
- As a significant part of his lifestyle, Chef Berkmiller personally connects with farmers who supply Pasture for Life cattle, ensuring a high-quality, sustainable source of ingredients for his food-and-drink creations at home and in his restaurant.
- After gaining trust and loyalty from customers due to his transparency about ingredients, Berkmiller continues to elevate the standards of the restaurant industry by using homegrown produce and Pasture for Life approved meat in his recipes, embodying a sustainable and ethical food-and-drink lifestyle.
