The New Leaf Restaurant in Fort Tryon Park Serves Up Delicious Local Fare & Supports Community Gardens

<a href="http://newleafrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">The New Leaf Restaurant and Bar </a>is a garden oasis at the tip-top of Manhattan. A short walk from <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/visit-the-cloisters/">The Cloisters Museum</a> in Fort Tryon Park, the restaurant was salvaged by the <a href="http://www.nyrp.org" target="_blank">New York Restoration Project</a>, headed under actress Bette Midler. The New Leaf not only provides a unique dining experience, but also sends some of its revenue to NYRP’s mission to restore community gardens and parks around New York.

The historic stone structure that now houses the <a href="http://newleafrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">New Leaf</a> was once a city run concession for Fort Tryon park in the 1930s.

The NYRP renovated the dilapidated structure in 1995, when the entire park was restored to its forest-like splendor. The restaurant itself was restored, expanding to a large outdoor dining area for enjoying the surrounding park in warmer months. Inside, the main dining area is capped by the expansive original vaulted ceiling.

The <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/pine-box-rock-shop-serves-up-vegan-booze-in-a-sustainably-designed-bushwick-bar/" target="_blank">restored exposed planks of dark wood </a>creates a lodge like feel, which is fitting in the lush green area. French doors open onto the patio, doubling the already large dining area.

Diners can also sit in the adjacent bar area and enjoy a classic cocktail, either at the dark wood bar or small dining area.

Executive Chef Scott Campbell sources the delectable menu from <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/eat-drink/farmers-markets/" target="_blank">local greenmarkets</a>, Upstate New York farms, and from the very community gardens that NYRP supports. The New Leaf is committed to serving dishes made from only the freshest sustainable ingredients.

With help from the New Leaf, the NYRP has restored 55 community gardens and four city parks, and continues to maintain them with varied means of support. The NYRP organizes <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/benjamin-jones-bicycle-composter-lets-brooklyners-pedal-their-way-to-a-healthier-garden/" target="_blank">park clean ups</a>, stewardship and programs throughout the city with the help of volunteers and sponsors. Enjoy a sustainable and artisanal meal at the New Leaf after a visit to the Cloisters or a jaunt through Fort Tryon Park, and make not only your stomach happy, but parks around New York as well!