2026 Chef Ambassadors

“I was drawn to cooking not just by flavors, but by the energy. By how a simple meal could bring people together, tell a story and create lasting memories.” – Chef Guichard Ulysse

Discover the Passion Driving South Carolina Dining

From dock-to-table seafood in Charleston to globally inspired kitchens along the Grand Strand and thoughtful fusion dining in the Upstate, meet the chefs shaping South Carolina’s diverse food culture.

Meet Chef James London

Charleston native James London brings a deep respect for local ingredients and a hands-on understanding of South Carolina’s coastal bounty to his role as a 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassador.

Meet Chef Guichard Ulysse

From his mother’s kitchen to his restaurant in Greer, discover how culture, connection and bold flavor earned Chef Guichard Ulysse a spot as a 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassador.

Meet Chef Jordan Lazarus Heyd

A life-changing moment set Jordan Lazarus Heyd on an unexpected culinary path—one that now defines her work as a 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassador.

Chubby Fish

With seasonal ingredients and fresh catches straight from the Atlantic Ocean, Chubby Fish offers a dining experience rooted in Charleston’s coastal waters.

House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar

From curated wine flights to ingredient-driven plates, House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar offers a dining experience where creativity and comfort meet at the table.

Lekker Eats Market + Kitchen

Lekker Eats (pronounced "Lack-Uh") is a neighborhood favorite on the Grand Strand, serving flavorful "Grab-N-Go" healthy foods inspired by travel, tradition and South Carolina’s local ingredients.

Seahorse

The sister spot to Chubby Fish, Seahorse is a cocktail bar that brings a chef-driven, ingredient-forward approach to every pour.

International Travel

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