Gov. Nikki Haley introduces the SC Chef Ambassador Program

For the many folks who live in Berkeley County, home cookin’ is what’s on the menu at a lot of the local restaurants.  Now a new state program can help talented cooks from the area showcase their skills inside the kitchen.

In a joint effort with South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers and South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism (SCPRT) Director Duane Parrish, Governor Nikki Haley announced the very first 2014 South Carolina Chef Ambassadors on Tuesday.

“We’re excited about this program because it’s another way for us to highlight all that we have to offer,” said Governor Haley. “We’re proud of our restaurants and locally grown crops – and having our Chef Ambassadors travel the state, promoting these things, is going to be extremely helpful.”

The program allows chefs from the four major regions of South Carolina to share local cuisine, promote healthy eating choices, and cook in statewide demonstrations.

“South Carolina’s amazing cuisine, delicious locally grown products and amazing destinations provide the perfect recipe for promoting the best of what the state has to offer. The Chef Ambassador Program will be a great tool for increasing demand for all things local,” said Commissioner Hugh Weathers.

This year’s Chef Ambassadors are Chef Heidi Trull from Grits & Groceries in Belton, Chef Brandon Velie from Juniper in Ridge Spring, Chef Cooper Thomas from Victor’s Bistro in Florence, and Chef Brian Waters from Saltus River Grill in Beaufort.

State leaders stated that all four ambassadors all showed a commitment to serving South Carolina-grown food and for making their restaurants destinations unto themselves.

“The Ambassador Chef program will complement and enhance our tourism marketing efforts in South Carolina by showcasing our destinations’ talented culinary professionals and creating greater awareness of our state’s diverse dining experiences,” said SCPRT Director Duane Parrish.

The current ambassadors will hold their positions for one year.