The Preacher’s Son in Bentonville is proud to announce Neal Gray as Executive Chef beginning mid-December. A native Arkansan hailing from Malvern, Gray will bring to a culinary and leadership style stemming from his education and guidance under nationally renowned chefs while honoring The Preacher’s Son’s mission rooted in sustainability and regionality.

“We look forward to welcoming Chef Neal to our team, building upon the incredibly talented team that we have, and moving forward as one of the best restaurants in the area,” says Kevin Weatherly, general manager at The Preacher’s Son.

Gray’s culinary background includes experience in some of the nation’s top kitchens, including the Inn at Little Washington under Patrick O’Connell, The French Laundry under Chef Thomas Keller, Blue Hill at Stone Barns under Chef Dan Barber and most recently as Chef de Cuisine at Simon and The Whale, according to the restaurant’s team. The lessons Gray learned working in fine dining restaurants will play a role in the cooking style he brings to The Preacher’s Son—but will not define it. Instead, Gray plans to cultivate a casual environment for his team while paying homage to, and celebrating the bountiful seasons in Arkansas. With warm hospitality and a commitment to letting ingredients simply speak for themselves, guests can expect a dining experience that will continue to refine The Preacher’s Son as Arkansas’s premiere dining destination.

“After 20 years cooking professionally, I’m looking forward to returning to my home state of Arkansas and joining the team at The Preacher’s Son. I’m excited to have this opportunity to mentor a new generation of young professionals, contribute meaningfully to our community’s rapidly evolving dining scene and ultimately serve excellent food in a warm environment.  My family and I look forward to meeting our neighbors and experiencing all the culture, arts and recreation our town has to offer,” Gray said.

Located in a historic church on A Street in Downtown Bentonville, The Preacher’s Son uses sustainably sourced ingredients grown by local farmers and ranchers to make memorable dishes and experiences. The restored sanctuary that is now The Preacher’s Son restaurant makes for a stunning backdrop while enjoying seasonally and regionally inspired Ozark cuisine. The Preacher’s Son is open for dinner service Monday through Saturday, 5-10 p.m. For more information and reservations, call (479) 445-6065 or visit thepreachersson.com. Follow the restaurant on Instagram at @preachers_son_bentonville and like them on Facebook.