Arkansas chefs and restaurants will be in the national spotlight during a new cinematic experience that aims to help people discover culinary artisans of the South on Dec. 7 in New York.
“A Southern Night at the Cinema” features bite-sized stories that offer unique insights into the world of Southern chefs. The stories invite filmgoers into cities as they showcase restaurant owners and their favorite spots to eat, drink, and unwind.
For example, Mark Abernathy of Little Rock discusses his Local Luna and Red Door restaurants and also takes the audience to spots he loves, such as the neighborhood restaurant Ciao Baci, Four Quarter Bar, and Stickyz Rock’n’Roll Chicken Shack. The latter two also shine a spotlight on Little Rock’s music culture. The story about Micah Klasky, executive chef of The Hive at 21C Museum Hotel in Bentonville, includes segments about Pinoylicious Flipino Kitchen, a food truck, and The Meteor, a unique combination of a restaurant, coffee shop, wine bar and bike shop. The combination makes sense since Bentonville bills itself as the Mountain Biking Capital of the World.
“Arkansas’ thriving culinary scene shines in this new film,” said Dalaney Thomas, director of Arkansas Tourism. “As Arkansans, we know how much our state has to offer, from unparalleled outdoor recreation options, to attractions found nowhere else, to great restaurants that reflect the unique flavor and culture of our state. We’re known as The Natural State for a reason, and this film will inspire travelers from across the globe to discover Arkansas for themselves.”
From Bentonville, Arkansas, to Wilmington, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina, and many places in between, follow chefs like Mark Abernathy, Micah Klasky, Silver locovozzi, Zweli Williams, Dean Neff, Wesley Fulmer, and Khailing Neo as they guide you through their cities. Discover their favorite restaurants, watering holes, and hidden gems.
The film showcases the diverse and vibrant communities that shape the Southern culinary landscape. Through the film, you can gain a deeper understanding of the cultures of these vibrant Southern cities, the stories behind each chef, and why they’re so passionate about their craft and communities.
Part of the culture of Arkansas is a state that offers a perfect blend of culinary delights and outdoor recreation. It is known for its vast biking and hiking trails, fishing and floating waters, numerous scenic drives and overlooks, and many other outdoor recreational pursuits.
The Local Palate, a magazine about the food culture of the South, is presenting the film, which it sees as an opportunity to explore the rich culinary tapestry of the South as well as a way to experience the South in a whole new way.
“Arkansas is a pleasant surprise with an abundance of unique experiences and culture and delicious cuisine. Telling the stories of the people and places of the South is what we pride ourselves on and Arkansas is an intrinsic part of the Southern stories,” Amanda FitzGerald of The Local Palate said. “After watching chefs Mark Abernathy and Micah Klasky, you’d be remiss if you aren’t planning to visit. Thanks to the passion they have for their craft and their cities, they intimately connect with you and provide the authentic sense of place.”
The event starts at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7 at the IFC Center located at 323 6th Avenue, New York, NY.
It will also be hosted in two other cities: Atlanta on Jan. 31 and Chicago on May 9. Once all of the events have taken place, videos from the film will be published on thelocalpalate.com and participating states’ own sites. The content will also be repurposed for the summer print edition of The Local Palate magazine.
Arkansas Tourism
Arkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across The Natural State. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural, and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.
