We have no shortage of food news throughout Arkansas, so each week, we’ll be providing you with a snapshot of the goings-on inside the culinary world, from events to specials to restaurant openings to awards. Do you have news to share? Please email our editor, Dustin Jayroe, at djayroe@aymag.com.

 

Rock Town Distillery netted a few more awards for its already healthy collection. At the 2022 San Francisco Spirits Competition, the Little Rock-based distillery took home two Double Golds for its Craft Cordials Elderflower Liqueur and Arkansas Vodka; and three Golds for its Arkansas Bourbon Whiskey, Craft Cordials Ginger Beer Liqueur and Cognac Cask Finished Single Malt Whiskey. The competition is the second oldest spirit competition in the world.

 

“Winning two Double Golds and three Gold medals is absolutely incredible,” says Phil Brandon, founder and head distiller. “And, to win gold for our two newest products, Craft Cordials Elderflower Liqueur and Ginger Beer Liqueur, is a marvelous achievement, and we’re very proud of what our team has accomplished”

 

Speaking of local distilleries, Northwest Arkansas’ Fox Trail Distillery is turning 3 this week. On Friday, April 22, the distillery will celebrate with a surprise tasting, tacos from Food Truck El Chefe, cookie cake and music. Check out the details here.

 

America’s “original” chicken finger is finally making its way to Arkansas. Guthrie’s, the Auburn, Alabama-based chain is coming to Jonesboro later this year, first announced by Haag Brown Commercial.

 

Cross Creek Sandwich Shop in Conway is under new ownership. Owner Chris Jennings is passing the business down to Caitlin Bailey, who, according to the social media announcement, has worked at the popular eatery since 2013.
“It is my true honor to carry on the greatness Chris has created at Cross Creek,” Bailey says.

 

Rocket Fizz in Hot Springs has recently reopened after being renovated by Charlie Devine. Judging by its Facebook page, it has apparently been closed since September 2020. Locals seem to be excited about the reopening because The Hot Springs Post reported after their visit: “For four and a half hours the store was so crowded you could hardly walk. The register had two lines trailing to the back of the store.”

 

In national news, Taco Bell just — officially, this time — announced that the Mexican Pizza is coming back. We were among those following reports earlier this year about the dish’s 2022 return, but Taco Bell this week referred to those as “rumors.” In an added twist, Doja Cat was the one who actually broke the news — on Saturday at her Coachella set.

 

Good news for those with a sweet tooth and a taste for Tex-Mex. Mexico Chiquito is now offering its famous fruit punch in four-pack bottles. Drink responsibly.

 

The Little Rock Zoo and its young professionals’ group Generation Zoo are putting together a “Cinco de Rhino” event for May 5. Read all about that here.

 

Tune back in next week for the next taste of Arkansas food news.

 

 

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