Papa Mountain from Augusta just claimed the top honor in Georgia’s premier food product competition. Their Garlic and Herb Bread Rolls beat out 179 other entries to win the 2026 Flavor of Georgia grand prize. This victory shines a light on one father’s determination and the growing strength of small food makers across the state.
The Winning Flavor That Stole the Show
Papa Mountain secured the grand prize for its Garlic and Herb Bread Rolls in the Baked Goods category. Judges praised the rolls for their perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, airy inside. The aromatic garlic and savory herbs deliver bold flavor while keeping ingredients clean and simple.
The product fits right into busy family life. These fully baked rolls come frozen and heat up in minutes. They offer a convenient side that feels homemade. Papa Mountain also makes other flavors like Cheddar and Parmesan, Chili Lime, and their award-winning Sweet Potato and Herb version. The brand focuses on gluten-free, non-GMO, and no seed oil options that meet high standards.
Hundreds of people packed the Classic Center in Athens on March 27 for the Savor the State tasting event. Attendees sampled finalists and helped choose the People’s Choice winner. The energy showed how much Georgians love supporting local flavors.
Solomon Cohen’s Remarkable Journey as a Single Dad Entrepreneur
Solomon Cohen started Papa Mountain nine years ago with simple Ziploc bags at local farmers markets. As a single father of three boys, he poured everything into building the business while raising his family.
“What started nine years ago in Ziploc bags and farmers markets has turned into an award-winning brand,” Cohen said. “As a single father of three boys, a full-time super dad, I put my life, blood and soul into this company. We have a great product, and we are just getting started.”
His story connects with many parents who juggle work and family. Cohen drew early inspiration from comforting breads and focused on wholesome ingredients. Today the Augusta-based company ships across the country and recently won a 2026 NEXTY Award for its Sweet Potato and Herb Bread Rolls in the Special Diet category. That national recognition came just weeks before the Georgia win, building real momentum.
The brand now stands as proof that starting small can lead to big things. Cohen’s focus on quality and convenience helped the Garlic and Herb rolls stand out among professional judges and everyday tasters alike.
How Flavor of Georgia Supports Georgia’s Food Makers
The Flavor of Georgia contest has grown into a key event since it began in 2007. More than 2,410 products have entered over the years. This year’s competition featured 180 entries from 80 Georgia companies across 12 categories.
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences hosts the event through its Department of Food Science and Technology. It serves as a proving ground for both new startups and established brands seeking wider markets.
Faith Critzer, professor and interim head of the department, highlighted the partnership angle. “One of the most exciting aspects of this event is partnering with food business entrepreneurs who are turning bold ideas into market-ready products,” she said. “Supporting their journey through this event and other outreach opportunities really demonstrates the great things that can happen through strong public-private partnerships.”
This contest does more than hand out trophies. It connects makers with buyers, media, and resources. Finalists get a digital product directory listing, personalized news releases, and a one-year Georgia Grown membership. They also present their products to industry experts.
Sponsors include presenting sponsor Massey Ferguson along with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Grown, CAES Alumni Association, Farm Credit Associations of Georgia, Corteva Agriscience, the Georgia Agribusiness Council, and The Dairy Alliance. These groups help turn good ideas into thriving businesses.
Ocmulgee Orchards Wins Hearts with Sugar Fried Pecans
While Papa Mountain took the grand prize, Ocmulgee Orchards from Hawkinsville captured the People’s Choice Award with its Sugar Fried Pecans. The sweet, salty, crunchy pecans come from homegrown Georgia trees and follow a treasured family recipe.
The snack offers a perfect mix of flavors that pairs well with everything from salads to desserts. Attendees at the tasting event voted it their favorite after sampling all the finalists. This popular choice shows how simple, traditional treats still win over crowds.
The contest featured strong entries across categories. Other winners included products like Crunchy Peanut Seasoning, Caribbean Hibiscus beverage, and Sweet Potato Cheesecake. Each one highlighted the creativity coming from Georgia kitchens and farms.
What the Victory Means for Small Food Businesses
This win arrives at an important time for Georgia’s food industry. More families seek convenient yet wholesome options. Papa Mountain’s success with clean-label, ready-to-heat rolls meets that demand while supporting local agriculture.
Judges evaluated entries on several points: connection to Georgia, commercial appeal, taste, innovation, and market potential. Finalists delivered three-minute pitches before final decisions. This process helps real-world products rise to the top.
For entrepreneurs like Cohen, the award brings more than recognition. It opens doors to new retail opportunities and builds credibility with distributors. The contest also spotlights how public institutions and private businesses can work together to grow the state’s economy.
Dean Nick T. Place of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences put it well. The college aims to foster innovation and support the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Georgia’s food industry. Events like this strengthen local businesses and highlight homegrown potential.
Small food companies now have better tools than ever to reach wider markets. From farmers market tables to national recognition, stories like Papa Mountain show the path forward. The combination of quality ingredients, personal passion, and smart partnerships creates lasting success.
Papa Mountain’s grand prize victory celebrates more than one great product. It honors the hard work of Georgia food entrepreneurs who turn ideas into reality every day. As Cohen and his team keep moving forward, they carry the spirit of innovation that makes the state’s food scene so special.
What do you think about this year’s winners? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Have you tried Papa Mountain bread rolls or Ocmulgee Orchards pecans? Tell us your favorite local Georgia food finds.
