How to Become a Certified Ocean-Friendly Restaurant

As a consumer, you can encourage your favorite restaurant to join The Surfrider Foundation Ocean-Friendly Restaurant (OFR) program. 

Restaurants are required to meet five criteria to become a member:

• No use of expanded polystyrene (also known as “EPS” or “Styrofoam”)

• Engage in proper recycling

• Offer only reusable food ware for on-site dining (glass, metal, etc.)

• No plastic bags with takeout or to-go orders, provide takeout utensils only upon request

• Offer paper straws only by request

Additionally, businesses must choose at least two additional criteria:

• No sales of plastic-bottled beverages

• Offer discounts to customers with reusable cups, containers, etc.

• Offer vegetarian or vegan options regularly

• Purchase seafood defined as “Best Choice” or “Good Alternative” by Seafood Watch, or that is certified as sustainable

• Implement water conservation and pollution mitigation efforts

• Implement and maintain energy efficiency practices at the business