Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced, on Saturday, that dozens of New York State chefs and restaurants have taken the "Pride of New York Pledge" to support New York State's local food and beverages businesses. 

In a press release, Governor Cuomo spoke about raising awareness for local vendors and the importance of top restaurateurs giving back. Cuomo has partnered with the New York State Restaurant Association, in order to reach out to restaurant groups and chefs throughout the state. 

The pledge, a part of Cuomo's Taste NY initiative, means committed restaurants and chefs will increase their use of New York products in their ventures by a minimum of 10 percent, the Associated Press reported. 

"Many chefs and restaurants have already discovered that New York State offers some of the best locally produced foods, agricultural and dairy products, beers, wines and spirits in the entire country," the press release said.

Cuomo said Taste NY is not just about promoting the outstanding food and beverages made in New York, but about opening up critical markets for agricultural producers all across our great state.

"We are very proud that dozens of New York's top restaurateurs have pledged to increase their use of these products to help generate greater awareness of our local foods and beverages and in turn, help local New York businesses succeed," he said.

Restaurant Groups and Chefs that have joined the Pride of NY Pledge included, Landmarc, Kingside, Union Square Café, Blue Smoke, Shake Shack (11 locations) and Altamarea Group, Chef & co-owner Michael White. 

By participating in the Pride of New York Pledge, each chef are also committing to utilizing their team's expertise and talents to introduce new New York themed dishes demonstrating that locally sourced and seasonal products are delicious and educating and maintaining staff knowledge of New York State's locally grown and made products.