Chris Coleman

he/him/his

Years of Participation

2015-2019, 2024

A native Charlottean, Chef Chris Coleman first gained an appreciation for local ingredients and fostering community while spending summers on his grandparents’ farm in Mississippi. The access to fresh, locally-grown food imprinted on his budding culinary mind, as did the intimate, hands-on experience with Southern growing seasons.

Early in his career, Chris spent stints as Executive Chef at notable award-winning restaurants The McNinch House, The Asbury, and Stoke Charlotte. In 2019, Chris opened The Goodyear House, and, along with his partners, founded Built on Hospitality. The company opened their second restaurant, Old Town Kitchen & Cocktails in 2021, and acquired Haymaker in 2023. Three new concepts are planned for 2024; two cocktail bars and a fine dining restaurant in Uptown Charlotte.

Chris is a Food Netwrok vet, claiming wins on “Beat Bobby Flay,” “Chopped,” “Alex vs. America,” and “Super Chef Grudge Match.” Chris is also the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Piedmont Culinary Guild, a non-profit whose mission is to connect the food chain in the Charlotte area.

Outside of his work, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife, Ashley, and kids Luke and Ellie.