Bentonville chef to appear on CBS This Morning today

The Hive’s executive chef Matthew McClure will make his national television debut today as a spotlight chef on The Dish.

McClure, a Little Rock native, will share his “inspiration and approach to refined country cooking,” Emily Neuman, market specialist for 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville, said. The Hive is located in the 21c Museum Hotel.

Refined country cooking, McClure said, is a combination of building relationships with local farmers, proper technique and good ingredients.

“When I say country cooking, I’m talking about recognizable ingredients and dishes. When I say refined, I’m referring to the way I source ingredients — from building relationships with local farmers to treating their product with absolute care in my kitchen.”

That care is in part reflected in how he was raised. His grandmother, part of the spark that ignited his original passion for cooking, stressed family gatherings and big meals.

Sarah Robbins, chief hospitality officer for 21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville, said McClure’s passion was evident “in every bite,” and seeing him succeed was an honor.

“Beyond his culinary experience, he’s a stand-up guy and a leader, at a local, regional and national level,” Robbins said. “It’s a pleasure to see him succeed and to be a cheerleader of that success.”

McClure himself can’t wait for the chance to share a little bit more about what he calls Arkansas’ food story.

“It’s an honor to share my story, my cooking and the growing culinary scene in Arkansas on such a broad platform.”

The award-winning chef has been featured in local media, but his national appearance can be seen today during the 8:30 a.m. segment of The Dish on CBS This Morning.