Outdoor Dining: Greenhouse Style

Posted by: Alison O'Connor, Larimer County Extension

There's no question that local restaurants are getting creative to allow more people to dine indoors and out. While walking around Old Town Fort Collins, I saw miniature greenhouses outside Rare, a local eatery.

Using miniature greenhouses to provide a socially-distanced dining space. Each greenhouse has a table large enough for four people to eat and be comfortable in winter. 

I sent the photo to my brother, who works for a large wholesale nursery in Oregon and his response was, "That's great! And it's no wonder we can't find any greenhouse supplies!"

So is this yet another positive for the Green Industry? Will this help "grow" more gardeners? Or will we see a glut of gently used greenhouses on Craig's List in a few months?

I bet it's toasty warm inside those greenhouses, especially when the sun is out. I also suspect they are heated in the evening.

Regardless of what happens, I have to hand it to our ingenious restaurant owners who are truly modifying their practices to keep their doors open. I'd personally love to dine in a greenhouse. Even better if it smells like warmed soil and vegetation. Happy New Year!