Every September, something remarkable happens on our urban farm in Ypsilanti. Local chefs fire up their stations. Farmers bring in the harvest. Youth leaders who spent the summer growing food take their place at the center of the celebration. And our community gathers to eat, to connect, and to invest in the food system we are building together.

This year, we're proud to welcome Chef Bob Bennett of Zingerman's Roadhouse to the farm. Bob brings the craft, the passion, and the deep Michigan roots that make this evening what it is: a celebration of place, people, and the food that connects us both.

Who is Bob Bennett: Bob was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He began working in restaurants in his mid-twenties, developing a passion for restaurant culture and energy, particularly at Zingerman's Deli. In 2003, he played a key role in opening Zingerman's Roadhouse and has been working his way up since then. Since 2017, he has served as the executive chef at the Roadhouse. Along the way, he is also currently serving on the Board of the Directors for the Independent Restaurant Coalition and The Good Meat Project. Bob's interests include a deep love for southern foodways and a strong commitment to supporting local agriculture in and around Michigan.

Chefs in the Garden is a declaration that Ypsilanti deserves fresh, dignified, culturally rooted food. That our young people deserve paid work, real skills, and a future in the food economy. That food sovereignty is something we practice, right here, every single day.

Your ticket supports Growing Hope's urban farm, Teen Leadership Program, community Farmers Market, and emergency food access initiatives serving hundreds of families across our community. Come hungry and know that every dollar you spend on September 27 is growing something that lasts

Chefs in the Garden 2026

September 27th, Join us for a elegant farm to table meal on our Urban Farm