The Döner is Leesburg’s first restaurant to hold a Virginia Green Certification given by the Virginia Tourism Corporation and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and only the second restaurant in Loudoun County to hold such a distinction.
“This is a program that brings environmentally aware consumers and businesses together; and we are excited to be part of it,” said Timo Winkel, owner of the Döner Bistro. “We are glad that our effort to be sustainable is now officially being recognized.”
The Döner Bistro has long used biodegradable cups, straws and to-go boxes. Its napkins and food trays are made out of 100 percent recycled materials, and the dishes are washed using a high-efficiency dishwasher.
“It’s always good for places to be more environmentally aware,” said Gem Bingol, Loudoun County Field Officer for the Piedmont Environmental Council. “We encourage and support businesses that recognize the value of being sensitive to the environment.”
In addition to its use of fully recycled materials, the Döner sends their cooking grease away to be made into bio-diesel and they have installed composite decking on their biergarten, itself made of 50 percent recycled material.
“The Virginia Green label helps environmentally aware customers make choices for shopping and dining; it’s great to be a part of it,” Winkel said.
VirginiaGreenTravel.com lists The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm in Lovettsville as the only other restaurant in Loudoun to hold the Virginia Green Certification.
“Travelers really are looking for more environmentally friendly establishments,” said Tamra Talmadge-Anderson, Director of Public Relations for the Virginia Tourism Corporation. “The Virginia Green Program is important to help our industry to preserve our natural resources. In addition, businesses like [The Döner Bistro] receive extra marketing from us for this Green honor.”
While the Döner may be one of the most environmentally sound places around, Winkel is satisfied with simply getting his name out there.
“We understand that the more our restaurant concept grows, the more possibilities we will have to help save the environment; joining Virginia Green is just the beginning.”
The Döner Bistro is located at 202 Harrison St. SE in Leesburg. For the upcoming First Friday event in Leesburg, musician David Davol will be performing at the Döner from 7:30-10 p.m.
I love love love this place. And believe me, the fact that they are this environmentally sound makes me appreciate them much more! Great article.