Art Smith
Chef Art Smith’s passion for food, community, and connection has made him one of the most respected and beloved figures in the culinary world. As Executive Chef and Co-owner of six acclaimed restaurants and founder of the non-profit Common Threads, Chef Art has dedicated his life to using food as a vehicle for love, nourishment, and education. Common Threads empowers children and families through cooking and nutrition education, helping communities build healthier futures through food.
Throughout his celebrated career, Chef Art has received some of the culinary industry’s highest honors and cooked for a remarkable list of world leaders and celebrities. In 1997, he became the personal chef to Oprah Winfrey, a position he held for ten years. His culinary journey has also led him to cook for two governors, five U.S. presidents, countless Hollywood stars, and most recently, Pope Leo—an honor he deeply cherishes.
Whether cooking in the White House or teaching children how to prepare a healthy meal, Chef Art brings heart, hospitality, and a sense of togetherness to everything he does, staying true to his Southern roots and mission to nourish the world.
