This year’s Plates on State event inspired by The Beef and The Bird
By Kyla Hurt
Photos/ElCrow Photography
The Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau kicked off National Travel & Tourism Week with its second annual extraordinary outdoor culinary experience — Plates on State.
Physically held on State Street in downtown Jacksonville, this dining event under the open sky featured a curated, locally-sourced, five course meal from top local chefs.
Jacksonville Plates on State was held on Sunday, May 3 from 3-7 p.m. This year’s sold-out event also boasted live music, wine pairings and a special theme inspired by past local favorite restaurant,“The Beef and The Bird.”
According to the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, “This year’s theme, ‘Time Capsule to Table,’ is inspired by a remarkable discovery from Jacksonville’s past.
When the 1975 community time capsule was opened, it revealed a preserved menu from the beloved and iconic The Beef and the Bird restaurant. Our chefs are honored to bring this historic piece of Jacksonville’s culinary story back to life — reimagined through seasonal ingredients, local flavors, and inspired modern interpretation.”
Community chefs who planned the courses included Joe Standley of Proud Richard’s, Richie Frederick of The Corner Deli, Andrew Deuel of The Little Stove and Bradly Mechol of Kitchen 63. Pastries and breads were made by Abbi Kafer of The Soap Co. Coffee House. A gourmet cheese display, tablescape and bar refreshments were provided by Hamilton’s Catering.
The event celebrated local culinary tourism.
