WILMINGTON, NC – As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the spirit of the Semiquincentennial is beginning to permeate the national landscape. While major metropolitan centers prepare for historical reenactments and formal galas, the coastal-inspired hospitality industry is taking a more spirited approach. Shuckin’ Shack, the 18-unit oyster bar franchise known for its irreverent […]

A quiet revolution is brewing across America, far from the traditional coastal fishing grounds. It’s a movement poised to revitalize struggling rural economies, stem the tide of youth outmigration, and fundamentally transform our nation’s food system. The catalyst? Aquaculture – the responsible farming of aquatic organisms – which is increasingly finding its most dynamic expression […]

The visual landscape of American Main Streets is changing, and not for the better. The sudden shuttering of neighborhood bistros, the "closed" signs hanging in the windows of long-standing family-run diners, and the stalling of once-promising fast-casual startups have become a somber post-pandemic reality. While economists and armchair analysts frequently point to the "triple threat" […]

Main Facts: The Hidden Reality of the Kitchen Counter In the spring of 2022, Kristin Hostetter, the Head of Sustainability for Outside Interactive, Inc., began a personal experiment that would fundamentally alter her perception of consumption. By introducing a simple silver scrap bin to her kitchen counter for backyard composting, Hostetter uncovered a startling reality: […]

NEW ORLEANS – In a night defined by gastronomic spectacle and regional pride, the second edition of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony reached its crescendo at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel on May 28, 2026. The event, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, saw Smyth, the acclaimed Chicago destination led by chefs John […]

The North American culinary landscape reached a new milestone this week with the unveiling of the 2026 edition of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants. In a ceremony that celebrated both seasoned institutions and bold newcomers, Chicago’s Smyth was crowned the No. 1 restaurant in North America. This prestigious accolade marks a definitive moment for the […]

Main Facts: A New Tide for Rural Prosperity The future of American seafood, often imagined along rugged coastlines and expansive oceans, is increasingly taking root far from the shore. From the quiet valleys of the Appalachians to the vast prairies of the Midwest, a transformative shift is underway, positioning inland aquaculture as a powerful engine […]

By Tracey Colley May 13, 2026 From the Spring 2026 Issue Try a structured approach to tasting America’s finest cheeses. The American dairy landscape has undergone an extraordinary transformation since the late twentieth century, witnessing a vibrant renaissance in artisan cheesemaking. Over the past few decades, dedicated cheesemakers from the verdant valleys of Oregon to […]

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the national discourse often centers on the lofty ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the complex evolution of American democracy. However, beneath the high-level political history lies a more liquid legacy—one that has flowed through colonial taverns, sustained revolutionary armies, and fueled the modern economy. From […]

In an increasingly globalized culinary landscape, the spotlight often shines on exotic imports. Yet, a vibrant, resilient, and deeply passionate community of cheesemongers across the United States is steadfastly championing the rich tapestry of American artisan cheese. These dedicated individuals are more than just retailers; they are educators, curators, storytellers, and vital bridges connecting discerning […]