Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper and Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA) President + CEO Stephanie Fischer announced seven new Georgia Grown Executive Chefs at the 2025 Taste of Georgia Legislative Reception last night. The Georgia Grown Executive Chef program is a statewide program designed to promote and foster relationships between chefs and farmers while spreading awareness about the quality of locally sourced and grown products in Georgia’s restaurant scene.  

The 2025 Executive Chefs include: 

• Joey Ward, Georgia Boy & Southern Belle

• Carlos Granderson, Southern National

• Alan Byers, The Deer and the Dove

• Jamie Keating, EPIC Restaurants

• Woolery “Woody” Back, Table & Main

• Chelsia Ogletree, Her Majesty Kitchen + Catering

• Joshua Swinney, Sincere Fare 

"We are excited to introduce the outstanding chefs selected as the 2025 Georgia Grown Executive Chefs," said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. "These talented chefs from across Georgia have showcased their dedication to supporting our state's agricultural community and earned the honor of wearing the Georgia Grown chef's coat. By sourcing fresh, locally grown ingredients and forging meaningful connections between farmers, suppliers, and the culinary world, they are strengthening Georgia's #1 industry and bringing the farm closer to the fork. We couldn't do this without the invaluable support of the Georgia Restaurant Association, and I want to thank GRA and President Fischer for their continued partnership in promoting Georgia's thriving agriculture industry." 

“I’m thrilled to congratulate and recognize our 2025 Georgia Grown Executive Chefs for this remarkable achievement,” said GRA President + CEO Stephanie Fischer. “By engaging in this program, chefs contribute to a greater awareness of the importance of buying and eating locally, thereby supporting Georgia's agricultural community and enhancing the state's culinary landscape. Our 2025 Executive Chefs have demonstrated excellence in their field and a commitment to service. Through their participation this program, they are inspiring the next generation of culinary professionals to make meaningful contributions to their communities.” 

In its 16th year, the Georgia Grown Executive Chef program continues to strengthen awareness of Georgia Grown products around the state, while acknowledging a diverse group of culinary professionals who prioritize Georgia Grown in their restaurants, schools and communities.