James has traveled extensively throughout southeast Asia, including to Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Taiwan, and Japan. He fell in love with Malaysia upon stopping in Kuala Lumpur during a layover. He has been back many times since, each time invigorated with a new abundance of menu ideas.

Originally from Dallas, TX, James spent his formative years in Greenville, SC before moving to Washington, DC in 2005. Prior to opening Makan’s first location in Washington, he served as chef of Maketto then Spoken English, receiving multiple nominations and awards from Michelin, James Beard, and RAMW.

With a passion for and agility with Asian traditions and ingredients, James aims to bring the Makan experience to Charleston so guests may feel fully transported to Malaysia at their table.