Recipes
Winter Haven's New Eco-Friendly Jungle Pub Offers Unique Dining Experience
2025-02-22

In the heart of Winter Haven, Florida, a new establishment has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. Sauvage, an innovative jungle pub, recently opened its doors, offering eco-spirits and a fusion of Polynesian and Asian-inspired cuisine. This unique venue not only provides a memorable dining experience but also promotes sustainability through its carefully curated menu and environmentally friendly practices.

A Closer Look at Sauvage: The Eco-Conscious Jungle Pub in Winter Haven

In the vibrant city of Winter Haven, nestled on West Central Avenue, a striking mural of a lion and zebra sharing cocktails in suits marks the entrance to Sauvage, a newly opened jungle pub. Co-owners Wellie Liao and Stephen Vallette have created a space that seamlessly blends the wild with refined flavors. The pub’s name, derived from the French word for "savage," symbolizes their commitment to freedom and authenticity in both spirits and food.

Liao, who previously ran Obscure Wine Company, a wine bar in downtown Winter Haven, teamed up with Vallette, an experienced restaurateur, to bring this concept to life. Their vision was to merge Hawaiian and Taiwanese influences with a touch of Asian street food, creating a distinctive culinary experience. Sauvage stands out as the first bar in Polk County to serve eco-spirits—small-batch liquors made from ethically sourced ingredients and packaged sustainably. Every aspect of the production process is transparent, ensuring customers know exactly where their drinks come from.

The cocktail menu features creative concoctions like the “In True Haven Fashion,” a modern twist on the Old Fashioned, while the food menu offers playful dishes such as Auntie’s wings and the Shaka burger. Customers are encouraged to order directly from the bar, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. Liao emphasizes the importance of using natural cooking methods, opting for beef tallow over seed oils for healthier options.

Sauvage celebrated its grand opening during the Lunar New Year and plans to host various events, including live music and a sustainable coffee hour, to further engage the community.

From a reader's perspective, Sauvage represents more than just a dining spot; it embodies a movement towards sustainability and innovation in the hospitality industry. Its dedication to ethical sourcing and eco-friendly practices sets a commendable example for other establishments. For those seeking a unique and conscientious dining experience, Sauvage offers an inviting escape into a world where flavor meets responsibility.

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