Lots of restaurants in Atlanta are fans of the farm to table model of food service, sustainability and investing in the freshest local ingredients. Fifth Group’s Ecco in Midtown, named the first official ‘Green Foodservice Restaurant in Atlanta’ in 2010 by the GFA, has taken it to a new level - the roof!

Sous Chef Justin Jordan took us up to the new rooftop garden at Ecco and showed off their fresh herbs, squash blossoms, cow peas and more!These items are picked right off the vine/stem and prepared right downstairs.

Some delicious summer menu items incorporating these tasty treats include one of my favorite bites of the night - Stuffed squash blossoms, mozzarella, anchovy, chili flake, basil emulsion. So good! Another must-order are the slow-roasted beets, peaches, pea tendrils, and feta.

The menu at Ecco has something for everyone. And when I say everyone, there are some dishes on there you must try on your next visit there. First, the fried goat cheese balls with honey. A signature item for the restaurant! I’m also a fan of their wood-fired pizzas, and their wine list is inspired. They even have proscuitto hanging in their wine room!

So next time you’re dropping your car off at the valet, take a look up! You might be looking at your next meal!