Just in time for Super Bowl, the City of Phoenix Office of Environmental Programs and Local First Arizona are teaming up to launch its Phoenix: Let’s Eat Local! campaign on Feb. 4 celebrating local restaurant owners, farmers, advocates and more to help build stronger food systems in Phoenix communities.
“I can’t think of a better time to launch this campaign,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “There are so many incredible local restaurants in Phoenix that I hope visitors will be able to try while they are here for the big game. Eating local is the ultimate way to get a taste of what Phoenix is about.”
Several areas were selected to highlight during the campaign due to the diversity of the Phoenix food scene. Roosevelt Row, Melrose, and Grand offer a well-known food community in the downtown Phoenix area, while Miracle Mile continues to emerge. South Phoenix, Maryvale, Eastlake Park and Nuestro Barrios Unidos features unique local neighborhood character and diversity in population.
As a part of the campaign’s initiative, the City of Phoenix is working towards making sure all residents have access to affordable, healthy local food options. On March 4, 2020, Mayor Kate Gallego and Phoenix City Council approved the 2025 Phoenix Food Action Plan, which features a goal to offer healthy food for all by 2050.
“When residents support local food, they are supporting Phoenix communities as well as contributing to a more sustainable city,” said Environmental Programs Administrator Nancy Allen. “When Phoenix businesses work together to produce, process and distribute food locally, they are also helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
In addition to connecting residents with local food options, the Phoenix Food Systems Program helps connect Phoenix residents with local farmers and food business owners with resources to grow food and operate a more sustainable business. It also empowers residents by educating them on how to grow their own produce.
Residents can learn more about the Phoenix: Let’s Eat Local! campaign and see a directory of local eateries in various Phoenix areas here.