BINGHAMTON, NY - Today, Senator Lea Webb presented the New York State Empire Award to Whole in the Wall owners Eliot and Adrianna Fiks. The Empire Award recognizes excellence in the business community and honors leaders who have made meaningful contributions to their communities.

Eliot and Adrianna have long prioritized health and sustainability. Whole in the Wall became Binghamton’s first non-smoking restaurant at a time when smoke-filled dining rooms were still the norm. This decision demonstrated respect for both staff and patrons. In 1995, the Fiks launched the Stone Soup Project, transforming surplus but perfectly good food into nourishing soup for local hunger relief programs. This innovative and compassionate effort to address food waste and insecurity gained national recognition. 

“We have been farm-to-table for 44 years,” said Eliot Fiks, co-owner of Whole in the Wall. “We like to say we were buying local before it was spelled with a capital ‘L.’ We appreciate the recognition, and we’ll continue doing our part to serve Broome County healthy, organic, and gluten-free food.”

“Whole in the Wall has been part of Binghamton’s fabric for more than four decades,” said Senator Lea Webb. “Eliot and Adrianna Fiks built a place where healthy food and community come together, and their vision has inspired so many. It is a joy to recognize their leadership, compassion, and lasting impact with this Empire Award.”

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