Recognition highlights outstanding restaurants, food people and food events in Arkansas
(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) — Winners have been announced for the 2024 Arkansas Food Hall of Fame. Launched in 2016 by the Division of Arkansas Heritage, the program celebrates Arkansas' unique culinary heritage by recognizing the state's best restaurants, proprietors and food-themed events.
Winners were announced at the induction ceremony this evening, hosted by the Division of Arkansas Heritage. Shea Lewis, secretary for the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, was accompanied by Marty Ryall, director of the Division of Arkansas Heritage and Wes Ward, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders offered remarks via video. Ebony Mitchell, former Miss Arkansas now serving at Arkansas Food Bank, was the emcee.
“We are proud to continue the tradition of honoring the Arkansas food scene," Secretary Lewis said. “Food is an important element of Arkansas culture and what makes it unique. These winners embody this legacy.”
Arkansans nominated their favorite restaurants earlier this year in these five categories:
- Gone But Not Forgotten
- Food-Themed Event
- Proprietor of the Year
- Arkansas Food Hall of Fame
- People’s Choice
Winners include:
Gone But Not Forgotten
- Juanita’s (Pulaski County)
Food-Themed Event
- Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry (Yell County)
Proprietor of the Year
- Tusk & Trotter American Brasserie (Washington County)
Arkansas Food Hall of Fame
- The Faded Rose (Pulaski County)
- Herman’s Ribhouse (Washington County)
- Doe’s Eat Place (Pulaski County)
People’s Choice
- Beech Street Bistro (Ashley County)
“These finalists represent the flavors, traditions and stories that make Arkansas special,” said Marty Ryall, director of the Division of Arkansas Heritage. “By celebrating these culinary experiences, we’re recognizing their commitment to great food, the communities they serve and the traditions they're keeping alive.”
Honorees were inducted into the Arkansas Hall of Fame during tonight’s event at the Ben E. Keith Foods Mid-South Distribution Center in North Little Rock. Ben E. Keith served as an event sponsor alongside Moon Distributors, RockTown Distillery, AY Magazine, and past People’s Choice winner, Community Bakery.
More information about the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame can be found at ArkFoodHOF.com.