Among the great culinary treats of the city are the green markets that open up all over town once the weather permits. Not only do the markets in Union Square and Grand Army Plaza provide fresh fruits, vegetables and plants for urban dwellers but they also keep the city's restaurants' pantries stocked. So who better to walk a budding gourmand through the ins and outs of the green market than the city's chefs? Find out for yourself this summer when the Council on the Environment of New York City invites seven top toques to walk hungry shoppers through the process of purchasing and making a fresh meal from the market.

The fun starts on Wednesday, June 25th, when Savoy chef Peter Hoffman will meet patrons at 10 AM in Union Square, lead them through the green market and then bring them back to his restaurant for a lunch "inspired by freshness." Other chefs lined up for the year are Colin Alevras of The Tasting Room (July 16 at Union Square; 4–8 PM), Alex Guarnaschelli of Butter (August 20 at Union Square; 10:30 AM–2:30 PM), Saul Bolton of Saul (September 13 at Grand Army Plaza; 10:30 AM–2:30 PM), Bill Telepan of Telepan (September 20 at Union Square; 10:30 AM–2:30 PM), Galen Zamarra of Mas (October 8 at Union Square; 10 AM–2 PM), and chef Marcellus Coleman and owner John Tucker of Rose Water (October 18 at Grand Army Plaza; 12:30–4 PM). Menus will be determined by what's available at the market ($125 per person; space is very limited, to make a reservation call 212-341-2258 or visit www.cenyc.org/greenmarket/cheftoursandtastes).