Chef David Standridge of The Shipwright’s Daughter in Mystic, Connecticut, actively collaborates with local farmers and fishermen to source sustainable and locally-grown ingredients for his restaurant. Here are some key ways he fosters these collaborations:

Direct sourcing from fishermen

Standridge aims to establish relationships and a “circle of trust” with local fishermen, committing to purchase their entire quality catch, including underutilized, invasive, and bycatch species. This allows him to minimize waste and showcase the diversity of New England seafood.

Utilizing the whole fish

By using every part of the fish, from the fillets to the offcuts, Standridge reduces waste and finds creative ways to incorporate these ingredients into his dishes.

Partnerships with kelp farmers

Standridge works closely with Suzie Flores of Stonington Kelp Co., incorporating fresh locally-grown kelp into his modern New England cuisine, from main courses to desserts. This collaboration supports sustainable kelp farming practices.

Sourcing from local farms

Standridge actively builds relationships with nearby farms to directly source produce, meat, and other ingredients, ensuring freshness and traceability while supporting local agriculture.

Collaborative events

Standridge participates in events like the New England Kelp Harvest Week, collaborating with other chefs to showcase innovative uses of local kelp and promote sustainable seafood practices. My husband, Will, congratulated David when they both participated in the Groton Earth Day Expo at the Groton Public Library. David was serving up sustainable seafood poke bowls and kelp popcorn while Will was promoting the environment in our book and SEC-TV show, Nautical Tales & Nature Trails; Recreation in Southeastern Connecticut and Southern Rhode Island.

By fostering these direct connections with local producers, Standridge not only sources the freshest ingredients but also supports sustainable practices, minimizes waste, and promotes a farm-and-sea-to-fork philosophy at The Shipwright’s Daughter.