In Denver's densely populated River North Art District, intense pink light streams out the windows of a repurposed 1930s-era brick and wood-clad building. Through the windows, passersby can see tall, white columns growing hydroponic crops of kale, lettuce, basil, mint, and other produce. Harvested crops come bagged for sale or as featured ingredients in the restaurant's soup and salad-focused menu.
The grow lights, hydroponics, and plant-forward restaurant, as well as a retail shop, are all part of Farm & Market, an innovative venture by Co-Founder and CEO Davis Breedlove and his brother, Co-Founder and Chef Austin Breedlove. The restaurant offers quick-service meals prepared from the produce grown on-site, supported by locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
Nearly six months into operations, Farm & Market is generating about 70% of revenue from its restaurant and 30% from the market. The business is on track to generate $1.2 million in first-year revenue, Davis says. Projections call for revenue to nearly double in the second year.
The concept is also earning accolades. Farm & Market took home a 2023 Mayor's Design Award, an honor given to property owners who invest in neighborhood-enhancing remodels and new buildings.
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