Innovator: Charles Arinder and Eric Webb, Founders of Caliente Grille

Hattiesburg, MS - Charles Arinder and Eric Webb, owners and managers of Caliente Grille, are the recipients of this month’s Pine Belt Innovator Award.  

Caliente’s tagline is simple: “Fresh.  Modern.  Mexican.”  For founders of Caliente Grille, it’s more than just a marketing campaign - it’s a way of life.

“In an industry known to be packed full of preservatives and low-quality ingredients that leave customers feeling weighed down,” says Arinder, “we want to offer the option a meal for a healthy lifestyle.”

The Caliente concept begins with the ingredients.  “We aren’t reheating bags of pre-cooked meat shipped to us from a corporate distributor,” explains Webb.  “This is real food.  We make everything fresh, each morning.  That includes our marinated chicken and steak, tortilla chips, guacamole, fresh salsas – everything is made fresh every day.”

Can innovation be part of a delicious lunch?  Operating within an industry not known for healthy food options, there is no question. Their innovative approach to creating healthy food produces a meal that’s as fresh as if you grilled it at home yourself.

Caliente’s official grand opening was on January 29, 2008.  The architecture and decor is unique, the music is trendy, and they offer free WIFI.  Caliente has a prime location on Hardy Street, and is within walking distance of campus.  Specials are posted on their website: http://www.caliente-grille.com

Pine Belt Innovators is a network of individuals committed to fostering innovation in South Mississippi.  The purpose of the Award is to celebrate innovators within the community.  To nominate an innovator or for more information about the Pine Belt Innovators, please visit http://www.pinebeltinnovators.com.