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…