Sad news as one of my favorite downtown restaurants, Natchez, has announced reduced hours. This from chef/owner Alexis Jones: “In the coming months, you’ll notice some changes with Natchez, we have been revamping and after this week we will no longer be running our lunch or weekday dinner, and will be open for weekend services only; Friday and Saturday dinner and now Sunday brunch. We hope to serve you on weekends, and we will be willing and happy to help cater or provide private events on weekdays. You can still expect to see our signatures; braised meats, slow food, hand rolled pastas, fresh seafood, and local and sustainable produce and proteins.” Certainly not a good sign. The restaurant has experienced its ups and downs during the course of its three years, but has really settled into a groove over the past several months and has churned out some of the best food in town. If the end is near, Natchez going under would be a huge loss for our restaurant scene. Here’s hoping for better days ahead.
Speaking of big losses, Lee Edwards, beverage director at Yellow Rocket Concepts and an icon in the Little Rock beverage industry, is headed to Kansas City to join Haus Alpenz.
Jason Knapp, executive chef at Compass Group USA, is leaving his post with Green Leaf Grill. “I will be starting with Sysco Arkansas at the end of the month. Green Leaf has been a great place to spend my last 19 months. I wish continued success for Blue Cross and their health and wellness initiatives. I encourage everyone to patron Green Leaf at least one time, because there really is no other place like it in the downtown area. Once you try it, you will be hooked,” says Knapp. I happen to agree with Knapp. I’ve been to Green Leaf Grill for lunch and left very impressed.
Great news for fans of Izard Chocolate … the company now has an online store. To celebrate, Izard is offering free shipping on orders $45 or more. Just use the coupon at checkout: freeshipping45
Fresh Urban Eatery is just about ready to open. Greg Henderson has your First Look.
Pulaski Tech’s 2015 Diamond Chef Competition is set for Tuesday, June 2 at 6 p.m. at the Governor’s Halls III and IV, Statehouse Convention Center. Check out Chef Marc Guizol from The Capital Bar and Grill and Chef Justin Patterson of The Southern Gourmasian as they compete for the title of 2015 Diamond Chef Arkansas. To purchase single tickets or to become an event sponsor, click here.
Tonight is the last night of crawfish season at The Faded Rose. Get some mudbugs starting at 4 p.m.
Capeo’s next 3-course wine dinner is set for June 8 at 6:30 p.m. and features Clams and Mussels Steamed in Seafood Broth and Tomatoes with Rustic Grilled Bread (Santa Christina Orvieto), Gnocchi Tossed in a Meaty Ragu Bolognese (Tormaresca Primitivo), Herbed Beef Tenderloin with a Gorgonzola Cheese Sauce and Crispy Fried Potatoes (Santa Christina Chianti Classico). Cost is $55 per person (includes tax). For reservations, call 501-376-3463.
Stone’s Throw Brewing turns 2 later this summer and the local brewery is celebrating in style with its Block on Rock 2nd Birthday Bash. “A beer, music & food festival all rolled into one! Beers from Stone’s Throw & other great Arkansas breweries, music from Cindy Woolf & Mark Bilyeu and the Big Dam Horns, and all of Little Rocks best food trucks! Benefits the Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas & Arkansas Brewers Guild.”
Heifer International’s 3rd Annual Feast in the Field is May 30 at 6 p.m. This outdoor event is held on the lawns of Heifer International headquarters, adjacent to the Clinton Presidential Center. “ENJOY a family-style dinner featuring local foods prepared by the Little Rock Marriott’s Heritage Grille Steak and Fin. HEAR from distinguished speakers, Heifer project participants and enjoy a rockin’ performance by Donna Massey and Blue Eyed Soul. COME dressed in all-white, dressy casual attire.” For ticket information, click here.
The 4th Annual Pig Party on the River will be on May 28 from 5-8 p.m. at the Downtown Riverside RV Park. This will include a hog roasting, a Baggo Tournament and music. Cash prizes will be awarded to winners of the Baggo Tournament ($10 Admission/$10 Baggo entry fee).
On May 26 from 5-9 p.m., NYPD Pizza is hosting Paws on the Patio. “Bring a furry friend and come mix & mingle on our beautiful patio! We will be accepting donations of pet goods on behalf of the Pulaski County Humane Society. Bring a donation and receive a free appetizer or dessert!”
RIP Damgoode Pies
November 20, 2023
