Look up the word “visionary” and you just might find a photo of Leslie Rohland. As proprietor of multiple Bluffton enterprises—The Juice Hive, May River Coffee Roasters, Bluffton Pasta Shoppe and Old Town’s coziest cafe, bakery and tearoom, The Cottage, she has built a culinary career out of following her bliss.

Of course, achieving success hasn’t always been breezy. But armed with a vibrant imagination and an ear naturally attuned to her instincts, Chef Rohland basks in the journey as she does what she loves best: crafting delicious food and sharing it with others. It seems like a career in food has always been in the cards for her.

“I knew I was built for the culinary world from my very first job,” she said. “It was a ‘one-person-slice-a-pizza kiosk’ in a groovy, rustic mall in Salt Lake City. I ran this tiny shop by cooking pizza, serving customers, pouring soda, handling money and managing inventory. What I liked most about this experience was the full spectrum training and this is where I grew to appreciate the satisfaction that comes from serving a tasty and fulfilling meal, whatever the meal.”

That kind of self-discovery, as well as the influence of two grandmothers who exhibited versatility, patience, keen palates and creativity in the kitchen, were key to her success. Now that success is being recognized in a way that will allow Chef Rohland to make widespread contributions to the state’s culinary culture.

As a 2024 South Carolina Chef Ambassador, she is one of three accomplished chefs who will spend the coming year sharing culinary knowledge and experiences with the dining public. During a one-year tenure, these special representatives will conduct cooking demonstrations, promote healthy nutrition and highlight our rich agricultural bounty and heritage.