Johnson Nature Center Forest-to-Table Event

Friends of the Johnson Nature Center in Bloomfield Township hosted an upscale Forest-to-Table Dining Event on Sept. 14 at the waterfront oasis along Franklin Road, north of W. Long Lake Road. Chefs Chris Gadulka of Sylvan Table in Sylvan Lake and Johnny Prepolec of Alchemi in Royal Oak created seven distinct courses served along a quarter-mile trail at the center. Fare included chicken Roulade with bronzed fennel, Michigan venison, and more. Each dish featured Michigan-foraged ingredients including plants, flowers, berries, mushrooms, and other items one might find in the forest, paired with locally sourced fish, game, and other selections. The event, which included live music, an open bar, performing artists, and interactive ecological demonstrations, was designed to connect attendees with their natural environment in a whole new way. Funds raised at the event benefit Johnson Nature Center. // Photographs by Patrick Gloria