PERRY, Ga. — July 1, 2026 — Proof of the Pudding, the Atlanta-based hospitality company nationally renowned for its chef-driven culinary program, has been named the official food and beverage partner of the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter (GNFA) in Perry. Beginning July 1, 2026, Proof will be the exclusive food and beverage operator across the property, introducing an elevated dining experience to one of Georgia’s premier year-round destinations.

Under the new multiyear agreement, Proof of the Pudding will manage culinary operations for the fairgrounds’ annual calendar of events, including the on-site restaurant, permanent concession locations, mobile stands, premium hospitality spaces and full-service catering. During the annual Georgia National Fair each October, the company will oversee permanent dining locations and premium hospitality while continuing to work alongside the fair’s longtime third-party concessionaires so guests can still enjoy their favorite fair classics.

“Partnering with the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter is an incredible honor that aligns perfectly with our Georgia roots,” said Adam Noyes, CEO of Proof of the Pudding. “The fair is a tradition generations of families hold dear. Our role is to preserve that tradition while introducing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, chef-crafted menus and exceptional hospitality. We’re excited to serve Perry and welcome fairgoers from across the state.”

As part of its commitment to Georgia agriculture, Proof of the Pudding will prioritize partnerships with Georgia Grown and Buy Local programs, sourcing the majority of its fresh ingredients from farms and producers across the state. Guests can expect refreshed concession offerings, rotating chef-inspired concepts, an updated full-service restaurant and exciting new and innovative beverage options.

The culinary program will also introduce new family-friendly offerings, including a Georgia Grown Frozen Lemonade Stand, color-changing shaved ice and a Georgia peach creamsicle. Additional concepts continue under development in light of America’s 250th anniversary and Proof’s commitment to menu innovation. The full lineup of new offerings from Proof will be announced in the coming months. 

“Food is an essential part of the fairgrounds experience, and we wanted a partner who shares our commitment to celebrating Georgia agriculture, maintaining family affordability and enhancing the guest experience,” said Stephen Shimp, Executive Director of the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter. “Proof of the Pudding brings the operational expertise and culinary creativity needed to serve our community and visitors at the highest level.”

The partnership adds the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter to Proof of the Pudding’s growing portfolio of iconic Georgia destinations, including Zoo Atlanta, the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia International Horse Park.

For more information about Proof of the Pudding, visit proofpudding.com. 

 

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ABOUT PROOF OF THE PUDDING

Based in Atlanta, GA, Proof of the Pudding is a Bruin Capital company that has served top-notch cuisine, service and design for clients nationwide for more than 45 years. With a growing footprint spanning the U.S. and Canada, Proof delivers chef-driven hospitality across professional and collegiate sports venues, live entertainment and motorsports properties, convention centers, cultural landmarks, world-class golf courses and destination events.

Proof’s portfolio includes partnerships with organizations and venues such as the PGA TOUR, Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Gas South Arena, The World of Coca-Cola and The Carter Center, among others nationwide. The company provides foodservice and venue management, premium sports and entertainment hospitality, and large-scale event execution for corporate, social and cultural clients.

Proof’s continued national expansion has been supported through strategic acquisitions, including RS3 Strategic Hospitality and Gil’s Elegant Catering, as well as select partnerships such as Marigold & Onions, an award-winning catering company based in Toronto. Proof also operates Southern Crust Catering Company, an upscale, Italian-inspired wood-fired pizza and pasta concept. Proof of the Pudding’s leadership in hospitality innovation and scratch-kitchen execution at scale has been recognized with numerous industry honors, including BizBash’s Industry Innovator Award.

 

ABOUT THE GEORGIA NATIONAL FAIRGROUNDS & AGRICENTER 

Located in Perry, Georgia, the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter is one of the foremost event venues and livestock facilities in the nation. It is home to the Georgia National Fair, the Georgia National Rodeo, and hundreds of annual livestock events, trade shows, exhibitions, conventions, and meetings. As an authority of the state of Georgia, the GNFA’s mission is to effectively promote Georgia’s agriculture/agribusiness contributions and to encourage education and participation in the field.

by Dina Biondo in News, Press