Deborah VanTrece

Chef Deborah VanTrece is one of the South’s most high-profile culinary personalities. In addition to penning the best-selling Twisted Soul Cookbook, running two award-winning restaurants, a catering company and curating the menu for American Express Atlanta Centurion Lounge, she has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation, The Michelin Guide and Yelp’s Best New Restaurants… all in the last year alone. In her spare time, she managed to create the most buzzed-about menu, honoring Whitney Houston, for the 2023 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles and on September 2nd, she will premiere her first cooking show dedicated to her take on global cuisine. 

Prior to embarking on her culinary career over 20 years ago, Chef VanTrece was a flight attendant for American Airlines, where her travels took her to destinations throughout Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Her experience had a profound influence on her unique culinary style, which she describes as, “modern, global soul.” While her dishes celebrate the profound influence that the African Diaspora has had on contemporary American Cuisine, they also explore different cultures with the understanding that “Every culture has its own version of soul food.” 

Deborah is a tireless advocate for Georgia farm families, whom she regularly promotes through her menus and special community events. She is also a leading voice for the humane treatment of farm animals and sustainable agriculture. As a female African American business owner, and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Chef VanTrece is a passionate advocate for social justice, especially on issues that impact marginalized and vulnerable populations. She was honored by Good Morning America and the Coca-Cola Company for her selfless community work during the COVID-19 pandemic.