We’re excited to share that Southern Living recently featured Kendall Turk, Beverage Director at Little Bird, in its article “5 Ways Southern Chefs Make Sweet Tea Taste Even Better.” Written by Taylor Tobin and published on July 18, 2026, the feature gathers creative ideas from Southern chefs and bartenders for adding more flavor and personality to one of the region’s most beloved drinks.
In the article, Kendall recommends using a 50/50 combination of honey and fresh fruit to flavor and sweeten tea. She explains that fruit adds natural sweetness along with a subtle flavor, while honey offers a less processed alternative to traditional sugar. Kendall also encourages using local honey whenever possible.
Her approach reflects the ingredient-driven philosophy behind the beverage program at Little Bird and across Deep Roots Restaurant Group. By starting with fresh fruit and thoughtfully sourced honey, a familiar glass of sweet tea can become something more seasonal, balanced, and connected to its surroundings.
We’re proud to see Kendall included in a national conversation celebrating Southern traditions and the creative ways today’s beverage professionals continue to make them their own.
Read the full article here : https://www.southernliving.com/chefs-secret-ingredients-for-sweet-tea-12016661