Southern Food News Summary for October 29, 2026

Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee: The Deep South Cook

Southern Food News Wrap-Up: October 29, 2026 Edition

Well, well, well, here we are at the tail end of October, and the South's food scene is absolutely "buzzing". Let me catch you up on what's been happening in our neck of the woods.

What's Cookin'?

In Arkansas: On October 29, 2026, Casa Alejo inaugurated its latest location at 102 N Block Ave in Fayetteville. Concurrently, Don Pepe’s Gourmet Tacos & Burritos is progressing with the construction of its second location at 1965 E Oak St in Conway.

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux recently launched a new establishment at 2809 E Highland Dr in Jonesboro, while SoFresh has opened a new venue at 5505 W Northgate Rd in Rogers. Furthermore, the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 finalists, with the induction ceremony slated for early 2027.

In broader culinary developments, Hurts Donut has closed its downtown Little Rock store, and Baja Grill has completed its transformation into Lime & Lotus Latin Asian Grill & Sidebar.

Richmond, VA: Dukes Mayo, established in Richmond in 1887, has rebranded as Dukes Mayo Company. Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint, with 22 locations, has been acquired by Florida-based Green Shoot Brands. Chef Brittanny Anderson is closing Metzger Bar & Butchery and Pink Room. The Virginia wine industry has received a temporary waiver to use out-of-state fruit following a severe winter frost that impacted production.

Atlanta, GA: Whataburger has opened a new location in Conyers, while Fleming's Prime Steakhouse has launched in Midtown. A West African cultural festival is underway in South Fulton, and the South Georgia State Fair commenced on October 29.

Nashville, TN: Cracker Barrel has introduced its holiday menu, featuring Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes and a Country Fried Turkey Sandwich, with Thanksgiving pre-orders now available. First Watch has unveiled a holiday brunch menu, including Truffle Bacon & Brie Hash and Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll, available through January 4. Arby's has reintroduced its Deep Fried Turkey Gobbler for a limited time. Andy's Frozen Custard is celebrating its 10th anniversary in Tennessee from November 1 to 10.

North Carolina: Triangle — Figulina in downtown Raleigh has been named Southern Living's Restaurant of the Month. Pecan Jacks, renowned for its homemade ice cream and Southern treats, is opening its first North Carolina location in Pittsboro.

Michelin Guide American South 2026 Announced on October 22–23, the ceremony at The Pinnacle in Nashville awarded new Michelin stars to So. Fox (Atlanta), Uberto Restaurant (Gay, GA), and Dakar NOLA (New Orleans), marking just three new stars across the entire seven-state region.

Baton Rouge, LA: Umami Japanese Bistro is set to open a second location in the former Tsunami Sushi space at 1 Smart Way. Vals has launched a Taco Bell-inspired Cantina Bell menu available through October 31. Elsie’s Plate & Pie and The St. Francisville Inn & Restaurant have received new recommendations from the Michelin Guide. Iverstine Butcher has begun accepting Thanksgiving preorders for smoked turkeys and hams.

Nashville, TN: Ninki Hibachi & K-BBQ recorded the lowest health inspection score in Davidson County for the week of October 21–28, with a score of 61. Nationwide chains are introducing holiday items: Dunkin’ will reintroduce Cookie Butter drinks on November 4, First Watch has added a holiday brunch menu available through January 4, and Arby’s has brought back the Deep Fried Turkey Gobbler.

Memphis, TN: Memphis restaurants have received Michelin nods for the second consecutive year. Culver’s is preparing to open in the area, and a new barbecue festival is scheduled for 2027.

Rutherford County, TN: Yoki Buffet in Murfreesboro received a health inspection score of 63, resulting in the embargo of 14 pounds of food. Andy’s Frozen Custard is celebrating its 10th anniversary in Tennessee with special treats available from November 1–10.

Oxford, MS: Venues such as Circle & Square Brewing and Quack’s Dogs are hosting Halloween events, including costume contests and happy hour specials, through October 30.

Richmond, VA: The Answer Brewpub is hosting an International Dumpling Showdown. Virginia winemakers have received a temporary waiver to use out-of-state fruit due to frost damage. Metzger Bar & Butchery is closing, while Tous les Jours will open a new bakery on October 30.

Austin, TX: Intero chefs have launched a new steakhouse featuring regional Texas Wagyu, and Big Al.

Real Talk

But it's not all glitz and glamour. Many smaller Southern restaurants are struggling with supply chain hiccups and rising ingredient costs. If you've got a favorite local spot, maybe swing by and show some love because these folks are keeping our culinary traditions alive.

Looking Ahead

As we head into November and the holiday season madness, expect more farm-to-table collaborations and comfort food comebacks. Because let's be real: nobody does cozy food season like the South.

Keep your eyes peeled for whatever's next. This region's food community never ceases to amaze me with its creativity and heart.

"Until next time, y'all eat good!" - Gin Lee

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Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee

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