Dining

Our culinary philosophy is fresh, seasonal, and with the idea of "leaving no trace", in terms of environmental impact. We prefer local markets and small meat purveyors and dairies. In our small town of St. George we have two excellent farmer's markets that sell everything from gourmet cheeses to the very best fruits and vegetables.

Green Valley serves a lot of game and wild fish. We feature a Southern Utah Harvest menu during this late autumn season; with trout, elk, pecans, pumpkins, hearty organic greens and more. A fresh, honest, seasonal "close to home" menu is great for us and our guests.

Even though our menu is tuned to provide 1,200 calories a day to our guests, we provide delicious gourmet meals with exquisite flavors. We use the flavors that are in abundance, and use fat as a flavor, not as a cooking medium. Here we live on the Earth and with the Earth, and even our diets can honor that mighty sphere and our own cycle of life.

Chef Francesca van der Stappen

A Northern Utah native, I spent lots of time in my youth in the mountains, fishing and hunting. Just about the only things to do in Utah as a youngster; unless you preferred the more traditional pursuits for girls – like sewing, big hair, and building your "hope chest".

My hope chest was filled with a different desire than most of my friends. I knew very early on that I wanted to play with my food when I grew up.

My career has taken me to so many great places – most recently to Louisiana where I served as Chef de Cuisine at the Dakota Restaurant under Executive Chef Kim T. Kringlie. Chef Kim also exposed me to Spanish food at "Rambla" and Classic French and Louisianan fare at "Cuvee", which he also owns. All of these restaurants are highly regarded and local favorites. The Dakota received a Zagat rating of 28 "excellent to perfection" in 2009.

I consider working at Green Valley Spa my most important position. It is a most peaceful, beautiful and awe-inspiring workplace and environment. I truly wish everyone had a chance to carry this special place with them.