Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Orange Beach has been named one of the top 10 winners of the 2024 USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice award for Best Small Town Food Scene. 

According to the 10Best.com article, Orange Beach's "thriving food scene" and "diverse array of dining options" impressed the judges and voters. The article highlighted the town's "locally sourced ingredients, creative menus, and talented chefs" as key factors in its victory.

Mayor Tony Kennon of Orange Beach expressed his pride in the community's culinary accomplishments. "We are thrilled to be recognized as having the best small town food scene in the country," he said. "Our local restaurants, chefs, and food producers have worked hard to make Orange Beach a true destination for food lovers."

The 10Best Readers' Choice awards are determined by an online vote, with the public selecting their favorites from a pool of nominees chosen by a panel of relevant experts. Orange Beach's win showcases the town's growing reputation as a culinary hotspot in the Southeast.

In the same week, Orange Beach has two local chefs selected to showcase their culinary skills at the prestigious 9th Annual Alabama Seafood Cook-Off. Chef Emilio Urban from CoastAL Orange Beach and Chef Laurence Agnew of Villaggio’s Grille will be competing against other top chefs from across the state for the 2024 state title. 

Last year Chef Brodie Olive from Voyagers Restaurant at the Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach not only took the state title, but the national title as well.

These chefs’ participation in these events highlights Orange Beach's vibrant culinary scene and underscores the town's growing reputation as a destination for excellent dining, especially when it comes to seafood. This dual recognition — both for individual chefs and the community as a whole — serves to further elevate Orange Beach's profile as a hub of dining excellence in our region.