Vivian Howard's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Vivian Howard is an American chef and restaurateur who has made a significant impact on the culinary world with her innovative approach to Southern cuisine. Born and raised in Deep Run, North Carolina, Howard has always had a deep connection to the food and culture of the South. She studied journalism at North Carolina State University and worked in the food and beverage industry before pursuing her passion for cooking.

In 2005, Howard and her husband, Ben Knight, opened the now-iconic restaurant Chef & the Farmer in Kinston, North Carolina. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its focus on locally-sourced ingredients and traditional Southern dishes with a modern twist. Howard's fresh take on Southern cuisine, which she describes as "modern South," has garnered widespread acclaim and numerous awards.

In 2013, Howard launched her award-winning PBS documentary series, "A Chef's Life," which followed her journey as a chef, restaurateur, and advocate for local food systems. The show provided a glimpse into Howard's life and the challenges and triumphs of running a successful restaurant while celebrating the rich culinary traditions of the South. The series resonated with audiences and earned Howard a dedicated following of food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs.

Howard's dedication to promoting local farmers and artisans through her restaurant and television show has earned her a reputation as a pioneer in the farm-to-table movement. She has been a vocal advocate for supporting small-scale farmers and reestablishing the connection between food producers and consumers. Howard's commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing has inspired many others in the culinary world to prioritize local, seasonal ingredients.

In addition to her work as a chef and restaurateur, Howard is also an accomplished author. Her cookbook, "Deep Run Roots: Stories and Recipes from My Corner of the South," was published in 2016 and became an instant bestseller. The book offers a comprehensive look at Howard's culinary heritage and features over 200 recipes that reflect her modern approach to Southern cooking. "Deep Run Roots" showcases Howard's expertise in combining traditional Southern flavors with contemporary techniques, making it a valuable resource for home cooks and food enthusiasts.

Howard's impact on the culinary world extends beyond her restaurant and television work. She has become a prominent figure in the ongoing conversation about diversity and representation in the food industry. As a female chef in a male-dominated profession, Howard has been an outspoken advocate for gender equality and the need for more opportunities for women in the kitchen and leadership roles. She has used her platform to address these important issues and has inspired a new generation of female chefs to pursue their culinary ambitions.

Today, Vivian Howard continues to make a positive impact on the culinary world through her various ventures. Chef & the Farmer remains a beloved destination for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of Howard's innovative Southern cuisine. In addition to her restaurant, Howard remains committed to promoting Southern foodways and supporting local food systems through her advocacy work and public appearances. She continues to be a leading voice in the farm-to-table movement, inspiring others to embrace sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients in their cooking.

Vivian Howard's influence on the culinary world can be felt far beyond the walls of her restaurant. Through her television show, cookbooks, and advocacy work, she has helped redefine Southern cuisine for a new generation while championing the importance of community, tradition, and sustainability in the kitchen. As a chef, restaurateur, author, and advocate, Howard's impact on the food industry is undeniable, and her legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come.