Auburn’s New Summer Chef Series Has an All-Female Roster!
This July, Auburn University's Culinary Residence is showcasing outstanding female chefs with its new Summer Chef Series. We've got the scoop! Image: Caravan Marketing
Just because Auburn University students have packed up their books for summer break doesn’t mean things have cooled off at 1856 — Culinary Residence. In fact, the heat is definitely on. This fine-dining gem, housed within the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management, is keeping the burners hot with the launch of its third annual summer chef series, showcasing the talents of three renowned female chefs from around the South.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Each chef’s three-night residency at 1856 will feature carefully curated menus that reflect their personal culinary philosophies. Think of it as a crash course in the South’s most exciting kitchens, without ever leaving Auburn. Reservations are available now through the 1856 – Culinary Residence website.
SB Tip: Make a weekend of it and stay at The Laurel Hotel & Spa, where Auburn hospitality students receive immersive training!
July 10 – 12: Chef Lauren Windham
First up is Chef Lauren Windham, an Auburn alum who’s basically culinary royalty at this point. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley and winning Food Network’s Chopped in 2022, Lauren crisscrossed the country honing her skills before launching her own private chef business in Winter Park, FL. Now, she’s coming home to Auburn to show off what she’s been cooking up. Spoiler: it’s going to be spectacular.
July 17 – 19: Chef Maureen Groark
The second week brings Chef Maureen Groark, whose name might sound familiar to Birmingham foodies. She was the chef and co-owner of the beloved Little Savannah and now runs Southern Graze, a catering company focused on soulful, Southern-inspired cuisine. But Maureen isn’t just about feeding folks; she’s also deeply involved in culinary education and mentorship through her work with nonprofits and Les Dames d’Escoffier. Expect warmth, wisdom, and wickedly good eats.
July 24 – 26: Chef Aneesha Hargrave
Rounding out the month is Chef Aneesha Hargrave, a Johnson & Wales grad whose résumé includes stints with Chopt and Impossible Foods. Her food is rooted in heritage, community, and flavor that tells a story. Aneesha will soon head up the culinary programs at the much-anticipated Elevation Convening Center and Hotel in Montgomery, AL. But before she takes on that adventure, she’s bringing her bold, thoughtful approach to Auburn for a can’t-miss culinary experience.
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Jenna von Oy Bratcher
Jenna von Oy Bratcher is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor and Lead Nashville Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville almost two decades years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.