Can a Farm-to-Table restaurant bring about change in the food system?: A case study of Chez Panisse

This research examines the extent to which a Farm-to-Table restaurant prompted social and ecological changes in food system. Chefs restaurants are uniquely positioned both generate consumer interest certain foods motivate farmers grow such products. Despite their central role Alternative Food Networks (AFNs), influence of on farming practices re-localization sourcing is under-explored. In this research, we used archival document review, interviews, surveys, network mapping understand mechanisms by direct market connections between Chez Panisse grew over time influenced farmers’ growing practices. Founded Berkeley Alice Waters 1971, frequently credited with pioneering model spurring slow, local, organic movements. Our study suggests that inspired toward more sustainable agriculture practices, but was not only influential actor network. We found local hub managers restaurant’s “foragers” were key intermediaries. findings demonstrate embeddedness AFNs pertinent fostering agriculture, long-term survival actors, growth.Acronyms: AFN: Network; DTC: Direct-to-consumer; CSA: Community-Supported Agriculture