Charleston, SC, January 23, 2026
Three talented chefs from South Carolina, including James London from Charleston, have been appointed as the state’s 2026 Chef Ambassadors. This recognition emphasizes the importance of culinary innovation and the local agriculture that supports the state’s growing food economy. The Chef Ambassador program aims to promote South Carolina as a premier culinary destination while supporting local farmers and highlighting unique culinary talent across the state.
Charleston, SC
South Carolina Chefs Named 2026 Ambassadors
Three distinguished chefs from across South Carolina, including Charleston’s own James London, have been appointed as the 2026 SC Chef Ambassadors. This prestigious state-level program highlights culinary innovation and celebrates the vibrant agricultural landscape that fuels our state’s burgeoning food economy.
The selection of these culinary leaders underscores South Carolina’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit within its thriving food industry. Their roles as ambassadors will not only elevate the state’s culinary reputation but also shine a spotlight on the numerous small businesses and local farmers who are the backbone of this economic sector. Through dedicated efforts, these chefs exemplify the personal achievement and resilience often found in the Lowcountry’s vibrant business environment and across South Carolina’s diverse regions.
The 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassadors
On January 22, 2026, Governor Henry McMaster formally announced the three individuals chosen to represent South Carolina as its 2026 Chef Ambassadors. These culinary professionals hail from key regions of the state, showcasing the diverse flavors and innovative approaches present in South Carolina’s dining scene.
The 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassadors include Chef Jordan Heyd, owner and executive chef of Lekker Eats in Myrtle Beach; Chef James London, owner and chef of Chubby Fish and Seahorse in Charleston; and Chef Guichard Ulysse, chef and owner of House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar in Greer.
Elevating South Carolina’s Culinary Landscape
The South Carolina Chef Ambassador program, established in 2014, serves a crucial role in enhancing the state’s profile as a premier culinary destination. It is a collaborative initiative between the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) and the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT), designed to create a stronger synergy between the tourism and agriculture industries.
This state-level program actively promotes South Carolina’s culinary talent, unique recipes, authentic cuisine, and locally grown products. A core component of the ambassadors’ mission is to support state farmers by emphasizing the use of Certified South Carolina produce, meats, dairy, and seafood in their dishes. This focus on local sourcing directly benefits agricultural enterprises and strengthens the local food supply chain, fostering a robust South Carolina entrepreneurs ecosystem.
Charleston’s Culinary Prowess on Display
Charleston continues to solidify its reputation as a culinary hotspot, and the selection of Chef James London as a 2026 Chef Ambassador further underscores this prominence. As the owner and chef of Chubby Fish and Seahorse, Chef London embodies the spirit of Charleston small business innovation, contributing significantly to the city’s renowned dining culture. His establishment, Chubby Fish, is particularly celebrated for its dock-to-table seafood, a testament to the Lowcountry’s rich marine resources and commitment to fresh, local ingredients.
The inclusion of a Charleston chef in this state-level program amplifies the visibility of Charleston SC business and its unique culinary offerings. It showcases how dedicated local entrepreneurs are driving economic growth by building successful ventures that attract visitors and provide exceptional dining experiences, ultimately benefiting the broader Charleston County economy.
Statewide Entrepreneurial Success Stories
Beyond Charleston, the 2026 Chef Ambassadors represent the diverse and dynamic culinary talent found across South Carolina. Chef Guichard Ulysse, from Greer, is the owner and chef of House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar, an establishment known for its “fine dining with heart.” Chef Ulysse’s personal journey, starting from his upbringing in Haiti and his culinary training at Johnson & Wales University, exemplifies dedication and entrepreneurial drive. His career spans various facets of the food industry, including a focus on children’s nutrition in school districts and regional culinary management, before he and his wife launched their own restaurant in 2022.
Similarly, Chef Jordan Heyd, owner and executive chef of Lekker Eats in Myrtle Beach, brings a globally inspired approach to the Grand Strand’s culinary scene. These chefs, through their individual restaurants, not only provide unique dining experiences but also create jobs and contribute to the local economies of their respective communities, highlighting the positive impacts of individual achievement and creative entrepreneurship across the state.
Fostering Economic Growth and Community Engagement
The Chef Ambassador program extends beyond mere recognition; it is a strategic initiative designed to foster statewide economic growth. Tourism and agriculture are pivotal industries in South Carolina, collectively contributing tens of billions of dollars to the state’s economy annually and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. By highlighting the strong partnership between chefs and farmers, the program reinforces the integral role they play in the success of both tourism and agribusiness.
These ambassadors participate in various public events and cooking demonstrations, sharing South Carolina’s culinary traditions and agricultural heritage with a wider audience. This direct engagement helps educate consumers on the importance of local sourcing and healthy eating habits, thereby increasing demand for local products. This, in turn, stimulates further investment and innovation in both the culinary and agricultural sectors, driving overall Lowcountry economic growth and prosperity across the state. The program serves as an excellent example of how state-level initiatives can support local commerce without overregulation, allowing creative entrepreneurs to flourish.
Conclusion
The appointment of the 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassadors, including Charleston’s own James London, signifies a continued commitment to culinary excellence and economic prosperity across the state. These chefs are more than just culinary artists; they are ambassadors for local products, champions of entrepreneurial spirit, and key contributors to South Carolina’s vibrant economy. Their dedication to using local ingredients and promoting the state’s rich food heritage strengthens the ties between farm and table, benefiting communities from Charleston to Greer and Myrtle Beach.
We encourage residents and visitors alike to support these exemplary South Carolina entrepreneurs and their establishments, recognizing the invaluable role they play in shaping our state’s identity and driving economic vitality. By engaging with and celebrating our local culinary talent, we collectively invest in the future success of Charleston small business and the broader Charleston County economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassadors?
The 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassadors are Chef Jordan Heyd of Lekker Eats in Myrtle Beach, Chef James London of Chubby Fish and Seahorse in Charleston, and Chef Guichard Ulysse of House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar in Greer.
What is the purpose of the South Carolina Chef Ambassador program?
The South Carolina Chef Ambassador program aims to enhance the promotion of South Carolina as a culinary destination by showcasing culinary talent, creative recipes, authentic cuisine, locally-grown products, and unique destinations. It also supports state farmers by encouraging the use of Certified South Carolina produce, meats, dairy, and seafood.
When were the 2026 SC Chef Ambassadors announced?
Governor Henry McMaster named the 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassadors on January 22, 2026.
How does the Chef Ambassador program impact South Carolina’s economy?
The Chef Ambassador program highlights the strong partnership between South Carolina’s chefs and farmers and their role in the state’s tourism and agribusiness success. Tourism and agriculture collectively contribute tens of billions of dollars to the state’s economy each year and account for hundreds of thousands of jobs statewide.
What is Chef Guichard Ulysse’s restaurant in Greer known for?
Chef Guichard Ulysse’s restaurant, House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar in Greer, is described as offering “fine dining with heart.”
Key Features of the 2026 SC Chef Ambassador Program
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Number of 2026 Ambassadors | 3 | State-level |
| Ambassador from Charleston | Chef James London (Chubby Fish and Seahorse) | Local |
| Ambassador from Myrtle Beach | Chef Jordan Heyd (Lekker Eats) | Local |
| Ambassador from Greer | Chef Guichard Ulysse (House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar) | Local |
| Program Establishment Year | 2014 | State-level |
| Core Focus | Promoting SC as a culinary destination, showcasing local talent and products, supporting farmers. | State-level |
| Economic Impact of Tourism & Agriculture | Tens of billions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of jobs annually. | State-level |
| Partnership Agencies | South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) and South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT). | State-level |
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