Grant Grove Restaurant in Kings Canyon National Park has reopened after its recent renovation, which lasted for 10 months and cost $6.3 million. The ecofriendly reconstruction improved diners’ views of Bradley Meadow, expanded seating and parking and meets LEED Gold standards.
The remodeled restaurant seats 225 diners and features indoor seating, an outdoor deck and a courtyard area with picnic tables. To-go items are available at a walk-up window.
“We are thrilled to present an updated, more convenient dining option for visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks,” says Lance Wellwood, regional general manager for Delaware North’s Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. “Our team worked closely with the National Park Service to address potential impacts during construction. Great care and consideration was given to the surrounding natural environment to enhance the overall visitor experience and, of course, preserve the beautiful setting.”
The newly designed interior has high ceilings, exposed beams, natural wood tables, and chairs and a color scheme that complements the rockwork. The entire structure was constructed using sustainable materials and construction techniques. There are large windows, a fireplace and historic photographs of Kings Canyon National Park.
The new menu at the restaurant features locally sourced organic ingredients. Executive Chef Brandon Bollenbacher’s menu features California-raised grass fed beef, San Joaquin Valley-raised organic poultry and eggs, and Monterey Bay Aquarium-approved seafood. Local farms and vendors will supply additional meat, poultry, seafood, produce, dairy and grains.
“We are very pleased to offer visitors a quality dining experience in a beautiful national park setting,” says Woody Smeck, superintendent, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. “Delaware North has worked hard to deliver a rustic architectural design that harmonizes with the mountain surroundings and is planned to achieve a LEED Gold rating for environmental protection.”
