COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster has announced the selection of three distinguished chefs to serve as South Carolina’s 2025 Chef Ambassadors, highlighting the state’s vibrant culinary traditions and agricultural heritage. Representing Greenville, Conway, and North Charleston, these chefs will showcase South Carolina’s locally sourced ingredients and diverse culinary culture at festivals, events, and promotional opportunities throughout the year.
The 2025 Chef Ambassadors are:
- Jeanne Koenigsberg, executive chef and kitchen general manager of Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery, Greenville.
- Darren Smith, owner and executive chef of Rivertown Bistro and Bonfire, Conway.
- Shuai Wang, chef and owner of Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ, North Charleston.
Governor McMaster emphasized the importance of food in South Carolina’s economy and culture. “Food is an important part of our state’s history, culture, and economy, and it’s where two of our largest industries – tourism and agriculture – overlap and excel. Our world-class culinary talent is highlighted and celebrated through the Chef Ambassador program, showcasing the best of South Carolina chefs, farmers, and locally grown products. I congratulate the 2025 class on this tremendous culinary honor.”
Championing Local Agriculture
The Chef Ambassador program, launched in 2014, is a collaboration between the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT) and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA). It unites tourism and agriculture, which together generate tens of billions of dollars and support hundreds of thousands of jobs statewide.
“Our Chef Ambassadors help people learn about the roots of their food – how it’s grown and who grows it,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers. “Food and agriculture are part of who we are in the Palmetto State. On behalf of South Carolina’s farmers, I’m pleased to welcome the 2025 class of Chef Ambassadors to showcase their talents and represent their communities.”
Celebrating Culinary Excellence
Duane Parrish, Director of SCPRT, highlighted the program’s role in attracting visitors. “Today’s travelers are looking for authentic experiences, and they see food as an essential pathway to getting a true taste of a destination. Chef Ambassadors are an essential ingredient in our state’s recipe for tourism success, helping fuel our tourism industry and boost our economy.”
Reflections from the 2025 Ambassadors
Each Chef Ambassador brings a unique perspective to the program:
- Chef Jeanne Koenigsberg of Greenville reflected on her work at Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery. “I’m humbled to accept this nomination in a non-traditional food service establishment. It reminds us that the work we are doing is important to our community and surrounding communities. I know that this will continue to give us a platform to show the importance of local agriculture here in South Carolina.”
- Chef Darren Smith of Conway shared his passion for local ingredients and his deep South Carolina roots. “Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to showcasing the incredible bounty of South Carolina, from the rich harvests of local farms to the fresh seafood from our coastline just miles away. To be named a South Carolina Chef Ambassador is an honor beyond anything I ever dreamed of.”
- Chef Shuai Wang of North Charleston emphasized his dedication to local sourcing. “This opportunity is a great way for me to showcase just how easy it is to support your local farmers and fishermen… Certain farmers I’ve been buying from since my wife and I’s first business back in 2015, they’ve become family. That’s one of my favorite parts about living in Charleston – it’s a community.”
For more information about the Chef Ambassador program, visit Discover South Carolina.
