Donnie Ferneau is the newly appointed executive chef of The 1836 Club. In this exclusive conversation with our sister publication Fit Arkansas, he shares some of his go-to wellness tips, tricks and secrets.
Read the full interview and get more insider looks at Little Rock chefs on FitArkansas.com.
Donnie Ferneau
What cuisine are you known for?
American farm-to-table (utilizing the best ingredients Arkansas has to offer)
What is your top tip for healthy eating?
Start choosing leaner proteins and reach for vegetables over bread. DRINK MORE WATER! Mountain Valley Spring water.
Simple suggestion for cooking healthier at home:
Try to support your local farmers by utilizing local ingredients. Stay away from simple carbohydrates (white breads, etc.). Stay away from fried foods; use your oven or grill more. [Eat] smaller portions of meat and larger portions of veggies.
The food trend you’re loving right now?
In the central Arkansas food scene, I love the new juice bars popping up with healthy options (I don’t want to have to cook every night, c’mon now).
Superfoods — what are your favorites and how do you use them?
I love roasting, then chilling beets and using them in salads or anything for that matter. And Chia; its great in your smoothies and breakfast cereal. Water.
Common misconception people have about eating healthy?
PSA: Arkansas, you don’t have to fry everything in order for it be good! And unfortunately, red wine packs on the pounds whether you want to believe it or not.