“We believe that all cultures have a soul food and we use our restaurant to bring cultures and food together. I am passionate about food that brings comfort.”

Hoisin oxtails with vegetable fried rice, ginger-shallot roasted bok choy; grilled duck wings with sweet potato hash browns and bourbon-peach preserves; harissa lamb ribs with dandelion greens, cucumber, tomato, mint relish, and grit croutons.

Born to a Midwest family, Chef Deborah VanTrece says she understood sustainability – especially using the whole animal – quite early. As a chef, she takes care to learn about the food she procures and how it was cultivated. “I think it is a responsibility of all chefs to care what fuels the body“, she says.

VanTrece cofounded a women-led dinner series called The Cast Iron Chronicles, where she and her colleagues aim to debunk the myths of African-American soul food through dining and conversation. The series addresses racial inequality and gender representation in the culinary industry and received national attention, including an invitation to bring the series to the James Beard House in New York City.

“VanTrece remains at the top of Atlanta’s dining scene, winning numerous local awards for her updated takes on globally influenced soul food inspired by her travels around the world.”

–Sara Ventiera, Zagat