David Stobaugh

Stoby’s

As a kitchen steward at his fraternity at the University of Arkansas, Morrilton native David Stobaugh picked up the nickname, “Stoby.” It obviously stuck. David eventually opened his own place, Stoby’s in Conway, and quickly earned a reputation for amazing cheese dip that became so popular that it stocked grocery store shelves by the late 1990s.

Jamie McAfee

Pine

Jamie grew up in McGehee where his father was manager of the Delta Country Club and his mom managed a local hotel. His own long career in the country club business proved indispensable as he led the Pine Bluff Country Club through the pandemic to continued success in the Delta.

Chester and Laura Huntsman

Chester and Laura Huntsman opened the Beech Street Bistro in Crossett in 2018 after renovating a 100-year-old home given to them by Laura’s father. The Bistro serves Creole specialties and unique desserts like Zydeco Cheesecake and beignets. The restaurant prides itself on its warm and inviting atmosphere with local artwork and outstanding flavors.

James Woods Jim Keet

In 1984, James Woods came to Camden to take over the management of a local chain restaurant. It was the job offer that lured him, but it was Camden that hooked him. He later bought a shuttered catfish restaurant, naming it Woods Place. Fresh, farm-raised catfish and true “made-fromscratch” cooking are the staples of this local favorite.

A native of Springfield, Missouri, Jim is a proven and savvy businessman who came to Little Rock in 1975 and immediately began to impact the food landscape as an entrepreneur with Wendy’s fast-food franchise operations. An operator of some 50 years with 155 restaurants to his credit, Jim is one of the most successful restaurateurs in Arkansas.