Petit an Keet's Story:

Jim Keet and Louis Petit have been friends for almost four decades. Their friendship blossomed from their shared passion for running exceptional restaurants. One night in 2013, they got together for a glass of wine and considered opening a unique concept together. This restaurant would capitalize on Louis' reputation as "the godfather of fine dining" in Arkansas and the Keet family's history of running award-winning restaurants in several genres. In September 2016, the former 1620/Savoy restaurant location became available, and they jumped on the opportunity to purchase the building. Tommy and Jake Keet, award-winning restaurant operators in the Taziki's brand, joined them as partners in the project.

Their dream was simple: to bring a beautiful new venue to Arkansas that is unique in every way. They hired Garry Mertins to collaborate on the project and design a restaurant providing different spaces to accommodate their guests regardless of the occasion. They put together an outstanding staff, including Operating Partner Brent Lenners and his wife Tyler, who serves as the Catering and Special Events Director, to help develop the concept. They have since brought on Director of Operations/ Executive Chef Alan Napier, General Manager Trey Kidwell, Executive Sous Chef Jessica Basto, and Wine Director Susie Long to assist in bringing their vision to fruition. The dream is now a reality with food that is unique, delicious, beautiful, and priced fairly. The cuisine has been featured in numerous magazines, papers, and blogs as the best in Arkansas. The bar and patio have already been touted as the best bar in Arkansas, with an award-winning wine list and superb specialty cocktails.