Our 2,000-square-foot gardens produce fresh vegetables and herbs in an all-natural, chemical-free environment, with the output being prepared daily for the center’s clients. Each living tower is capable of growing 44 plants at one time. With nearly 4,000 growing ports in total, the Westwood Lobby stays lush and green, and visitors can enjoy seeing the plants at various stages in the growth cycle. Between the towers and propagation area, we have up to 7,000 plants growing at any moment. The produce includes tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and herbs with a primary focus on various lettuce varieties such as butterhead, romaine and leafy green mixes. Urban Smart Farms has consistently harvested nearly 1,000 living plants per week since the grand opening of the gardens in 2016.

The fresh produce is harvested weekly and then transported to the center’s kitchen, which is located just steps away from the gardens. This hyper-local, responsible way of sourcing eliminates the long cross-country transportation journey most produce undergoes. Some of our plants are even "harvested" still "living" - meaning the roots are still intact and very much alive until the chefs begin to prepare them. It doesn't get fresher than that! The empty towers are quickly filled with seedlings that were started in the propagation area, so the growing never stops. Having the plants grown on site results in tastier, fresher produce that doesn’t have time to lose any flavor or nutrients before it’s prepared and served — not to mention virtually eliminating the carbon footprint associated with traditional produce.

Centerplate's culinary team prepares and serves the incredibly fresh produce at various catered events on-site, such as conventions, receptions and VIP banquets. The guests are always amazed when they learn the food they are being served was not only grown on the premises, but is also delicious and nutritious. We work closely with the chefs to tailor our growing plan to their needs, so the chefs are able to create exciting, creative, flavorful dishes with ingredients grown just for them. Guests can look forward to catering services that are a cut above the rest, and eco-minded attendees can feel comforted knowing their meals had less impact on the environment. Centerplate is the world’s leading event hospitality company and much of their success comes from their attention to the important details, such as fresh, locally-sourced, high quality ingredients.