Reviewed by: Mary Helene Hall
Frank Stitt Award celebrates Atlanta restaurateur’s impact on farmers, chefs + communities
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Longtime restaurateur Anne Quatrano from Atlanta is the recipient of the 2026 Frank Stitt Award for Industry Excellence, the Southbound Food Festival announced this week.
Owner of Bacchanalia, Star Provisions, and forthcoming Summerland, Quanrano has helped grow and lead Atlanta’s dining scene for more than three decades by pioneering a simple principle, according to Southbound: showcasing local ingredients prepared with precision and presented artfully.
“Anne represents the gold standard of a chef and restaurateur who is committed to excellence, knowledge, farming, and supporting the best growers and producers of her region. She has guided her restaurants and market with an emphasis on quality and genuine hospitality.
“She has been a leader in Atlanta dining for decades with an unparalleled dedication to her staff, suppliers, and guests. I am honored to present Anne with this award at Southbound in September.”
Chef Frank Stitt
Quatrano’s connects farmers with chefs + communities
Southbound described Quatrano as a “pioneering force” due to her impact on Atlanta and Southern cuisine through seasonal, farm-driven cooking:
“She is the co-founder of Summerland Farm with her husband Clifford Harrison, where she grows much of her produce found in her kitchens.
“Her ethos is simple — she was one of the city’s first chefs to showcase local ingredients prepared with precision and presented artfully. Fostering deep connections between farmers, chefs, and community, Quatrano has helped shape a more sustainable, ingredient-driven approach to Southern food.”
Why the Frank Stitt Award matters: Positive impact on culinary industry
Named for renowned Birmingham chef and restaurateur Frank Stitt, the award honors those making a positive impact on their local community and the culinary industry.
Past recipients include:
- Chef Frank Stitt
- Glenn Roberts of Anson Mills
- Beth and Bill Walton of Oyster South
Quatrano will be recognized during the festival’s signature kickoff event, the Heritage Dinner: Chicken & the Egg, on Friday, Sept. 18 in the streets of Pepper Place.
Southbound Food Festival is a 10-day celebration of Birmingham’s magnetic food culture. This year, it will be held Sept. 18–27. Learn more at SouthboundFoodFest.com.
