#WeAreHospitality
Step Into Our Kitchen
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
We are the professional home for chefs, restaurateurs, caterers, bakers, mixologists, and everyone who makes hospitality happen.
Our Story
Founded in 1983 by passionate culinary professionals, the ACF – Chefs of Charlotte brings together chefs, restaurateurs, bakers, mixologists, and everyone who makes hospitality happen.
Over the years, we’ve grown into a vibrant hub for local talent. In 2018, we proudly brought the Southeast ACF Conference, Chefconnect, to Charlotte, uniting chefs from across the region for workshops, competitions, and networking.
Through hands-on workshops, mentorship, and celebrations of our members’ creativity, we provide a space to share skills, build relationships, and advance careers—all while staying connected to the national ACF network of resources, certifications, and recognition.
At our core, we’re about people, passion, and the love of food and beverage. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, we welcome you to be part of our community.
OUR MISSION & VALUES
Mission: We are the standard of excellence for the culinary industry, advancing and promoting professionalism, leadership and collaboration.
Our chapter is guided by values that shape how we work, learn, and grow together.
Professionalism
Within our association and our workplaces, we promote the highest standards of professionalism, through certification, integrity, respect for diversity and transparency.
LEADERSHIP
Within our association and our workplaces, we shape and adapt to changes in our industry, reward creativity and continuous improvement, and promote leadership development and lifelong learning.
COLLABORATION
Within our association and our workplaces, we respect our colleagues: building productive relationships, networking, serving customers, empowering employees and collaborating productively with constituents and partners.
EXCELLENCE
Within our association and our workplaces, we uphold the highest standards of quality in all products and services, setting high goals and taking pride in hard work, persistence, and success.
OUR COMMITMENT
Our chapter pillars are the foundation for everything we do, reflecting our promise to support, grow, and celebrate our members in Charlotte.
FUELING PASSION
& PURPOSE
We highlight chef stories, creative dishes, and industry inspiration—because your passion deserves to shine.
SUPPORT CAREER GROWTH
From education to leadership panels and workshops, we provide tools to grow—so you can advance with confidence.
FOSTER A POSITIVE CULTURE
We celebrate milestones, offer mentorship, and build connections—because everyone should feel supported in their journey.
CHAMPION HEALTH & WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Through wellness talks and mental health resources, we help you build resilience—so you can thrive in and out of work.
ADVOCATE & EDUCATE THE INDUSTRY
We connect chefs, farmers, and vendors—because elevating skilled hospitality strengthens the future of our field.
MEET OUR BOARD
NATIONAL AFFILIATION
As a local affiliate, the ACF – Chefs of Charlotte connects members to the American Culinary Federation, North America’s largest professional culinary organization.
Since 1929, the ACF has promoted the professional image of chefs, provided certification opportunities, and offered education, competitions, and resources to help culinary professionals grow. Membership gives you access to national events, recognition programs, and a supportive network of peers across the country.