Gourmet chefs showcase culinary talents in downtown Selma

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

There’s a new food option in downtown Selma — where people can go to to have a delicious lunch.

But it’s not a restaurant.

Gourmet chef Alanna Dennis of Montgomery — is the chef of the month at the 5 & Dime in downtown Selma. She’ll be preparing lunch plates for sale there — during the month of March.

“We’re just kind of going through a different theme if you will each week,” she said. Basically, I like to look at it as a culinary journey. I try to pair those things that kind of work well together.”

Dennis gave up a career as a computer engineer to pursue her passion for culinary art.
She came to Selma to showcase her skills — through an artform that people can see, smell — and taste.

“Not enough people think of food as art, said Dennis.

“So, I was really intrigued by the fact that it was an actual art installation and not so much a focus on it being a restaurant.”

AC Reeves owns the 5 & Dime.

“Culinary art man, that’s what we need, culinary art. This is 100 Plates, the 5 & Dime’s culinary installation for 2024,” said Reeves.

100 Plates features different chefs preparing meals for lunch — for the rest of the year.
And it will also provide an opportunity for people in the community to come together — and discover new things.

As southerners, we generally don’t step too far outside of our box. So, the whole point is to try something different. You never know, you might find something that you like,” said Dennis.

“It’s a place for us to come together and share space, share food, share stories and share information. And so, that’s kind of what the whole vibe is here,” said Reeves.

For information about 100 Plates — text 334-375-3838.

Chef Alanna Dennis is a private chef — who also operates a booth at the curb market in Montgomery on Madison Avenue.

For more info — go to AlannasGourmet.com.