Chef Ambassador Program

James London, a Charleston native, discovered his passion for fishing and food at an early age, starting his restaurant career at just 14. After earning a business degree from the College of Charleston, he honed his culinary skills at The French Culinary Institute in New York City.

During his professional journey, Chef London put in years of sweat equity with formal training at the French Culinary Institute in New York. He also gained priceless, hands-on experience in acclaimed fine-dining establishments in New York City and San Francisco. In 2018, James returned home to open Chubby Fish, a celebrated “dock-to-table” seafood concept that highlights local, seasonal catches and sustainable sourcing. Next door, his cocktail bar and supper club, Seahorse, offers a wide range of spirits and a rotating menu of small plates.

Chef Guichard Ulysse is the owner and chef of House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar in Greer. Born and raised in Haiti as the third of ten children, he discovered his love for cooking alongside his mother and grandmother. After immigrating to the US, his first job was at Wendy’s. Determined to pursue his passion, he trained at Johnson & Wales University and built a career that included more than a decade serving as a chef for South Carolina school districts, focusing on kids’ nutrition, and later as a regional chef for Sodexo across four states.

Seeking a more personal and creative path, Guichard returned to South Carolina. In 2022, he and his wife opened House 509. For the past three years, the restaurant has offered a warm, welcoming experience often described as “fine dining with heart.” Chef Ulysse builds most of his menu around personal stories and meaningful inspirations, sourcing fresh ingredients from local partners and continually finding ways to connect his culinary craft to the community.