Celebrating the flavors of Arkansas

Celebrating the flavors of Arkansas

One of the best ways to truly experience a local culture is to try the food. Nearly every culture has its own flavors and customs influenced by nearby crops and often times religious tradition.

Our state’s cuisine is also heavily influenced by the imagination of our people. Just think about all the many ways Arkansans have served mouthwatering barbeque, crispy catfish, or spicy cheese dip.

If one of your experiences with great food in our state deserves recognition, you now have that opportunity.

The Department of Arkansas Heritage recently announced it will accept nominations for the inaugural class of inductees into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame.

Public nominations are currently being accepted in each of these categories:

Arkansas Food Hall of Fame:

This award will recognize those long-standing restaurants that have become legendary attractions in the Natural State. Eligible restaurants must be owned and operated in Arkansas, and have been in business for at least 25 years. National chain restaurants need not apply. Each year, three honorees will be inducted.

Proprietor of the Year:

This award is designed to honor a chef, cook and/or restaurant owner in Arkansas who has made significant achievements in the food industry. To be eligible, the candidate’s restaurant must be owned in Arkansas and have been in operation in the state for at least one year. National chains are not eligible.

Food-Themed Event: This annual award was developed to honor one of the many community food-themed events or festivals that make our state a great place to live. These events attract tourists and neighbors alike and serve up as much fun and hospitality as they do their signature foods.

To be eligible, the event/festival must be held annually in Arkansas, and it must have been in existence for five years or more.

People’s Choice:

Individuals may submit their favorite Arkansas restaurant or food truck, and the people will determine the winner. To be eligible, nominees must be Arkansasowned and operated, and have been in business for at least one year.

The deadline for nominations is Nov. 9, 2016. The winners of each category will be honored at a ceremony in early 2017.

For more information on how the winners are selected visit www.ArkFoodHOF.com. There you will also find the forms to complete for nominations.

Everyone of us at the House has café, restaurant, or one certain chef that makes our district unique. This is a perfect opportunity to make sure the entire state knows about the great food in our backyard.

From State Representative Milton Nicks