Farm-to-Table Philosophy

At Hearth and Home, we believe that the best meals begin long before they reach the plate. Our farm-to-table philosophy is at the core of everything we do, ensuring that every ingredient is sourced with integrity, sustainability, and flavor in mind.

We partner with **local farms and producers** who share our commitment to organic, seasonal, and sustainable farming practices. This allows us to offer the freshest produce, grains, and plant-based proteins, while also supporting small farmers and reducing the environmental impact of long-distance food transportation.

By choosing farm-to-table, we not only create meals that are nutrient-dense and flavorful, but we also help foster a food system that values environmental stewardship, ethical labor practices, and community well-being.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is more than just a trend—it is a fundamental part of our mission at Hearth and Home. Every decision we make, from the way we source ingredients to how we package takeout orders, is guided by our commitment to reducing waste and preserving the planet.

We operate a zero-waste kitchen, meaning we meticulously plan our menu to minimize excess ingredients, compost food scraps, and donate surplus food whenever possible. Additionally, we prioritize eco-friendly packaging to ensure that every carry-out order aligns with our environmental values.

Energy efficiency is another key pillar of our sustainability efforts. We utilize low-energy appliances, water-saving techniques, and locally sourced materials to minimize our overall footprint.

The Art of Preparation

Cooking at Hearth and Home is an art form, where tradition meets innovation to create unforgettable flavors. Our chefs take simple, whole ingredients and transform them into dishes that are bold, nourishing, and visually stunning.

Instead of relying on artificial flavor enhancers or heavily processed ingredients, we focus on time-honored techniques that bring out the best in plant-based foods. From slow-roasting vegetables to enhance their natural sweetness to fermenting grains for added depth and nutrition, every step of our preparation process is intentional.

We also believe that plant-based cuisine should be just as exciting and satisfying as any other style of cooking. That is why we explore global culinary traditions, incorporating bold spices, umami-rich broths, and innovative textures to create meals that are both familiar and adventurous.

Dining and Ordering Experience

Whether you choose to dine in or order takeout, we want your experience to be seamless, enjoyable, and stress-free. Our restaurant is designed to be a welcoming space, perfect for gathering with friends, enjoying a quiet solo meal, or grabbing a quick, healthy bite on the go.

For those dining in, we offer comfortable seating, a warm ambiance, and a knowledgeable staff who are happy to provide recommendations or answer questions about our plant-based menu. For guests looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy our food at home, our online ordering system is designed to be fast, user-friendly, and intuitive.

To ensure that every guest can find the perfect meal, our website features live menu filtering, allowing customers to browse options based on dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and high-protein choices.

Meet Our Team

Derek Borden

Derek Borden

Senior Contributer and President

Meet Derek Borden, a driven and enthusiastic Junior at Mercer Island High School. Derek has a passion for both sports and technology and enjoys a diverse range of activities both inside and outside of school. When it comes to sports, Derek has proven himself to be a skilled athlete. He has played tennis on the Varsity team, basketball on the JV-C team, and rows at the Varsity level at Mt. Baker Rowing Center, showing a dedication to his athletic pursuits. Additionally, Derek loves the outdoors and enjoys backpacking in the Cascade mountains, skiing, and mountain biking. In his free time, Derek is a curious and inquisitive learner. He has a strong interest in coding and engineering and loves to explore all things computer-related. Whether he is reading books or tinkering with programs, Derek has a natural curiosity for technology.

Jane Smith

Aiden Chen

Co-Founder & Nutritionist

Aiden Chen, a passionate nutritionist and co-founder, balances his professional expertise with personal interests that highlight his diverse talents. Alongside his commitment to promoting health and well-being, Aiden enjoys immersing himself in the world of coding, creating innovative solutions, and exploring the depths of technology. When he's not working or coding, he finds solace in swimming, where he can unwind and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This blend of professional dedication and personal pursuits defines Aiden's vibrant and dynamic approach to life.

Emily Brown

Elliot Chang

Asistant contributer

Elliot Chang, a somphmore in highschool spends his time in a mix of academics and extraciriculars. He enjoyed spending his time practicing tennis and playing on the varsity team; as well as teaching juniors at his local country club. Spending his free time volunteering at the elementary chess club, Elliot has a passion for both learning and teaching. From a young age he was taught to cook and contiues to show his love for the culinary arts by cooking for his friends and family.

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