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Cultivating Culinary Excellence: The Significance of C+RC’s 40 Under 40

The 40 Under 40 list by Club + Resort Chef highlights young, innovative chefs who are reshaping the club culinary industry, promoting diversity, fostering unity, and inspiring future generations.

By Scott Craig, CEC, CCA, WCMC, Executive Chef, Cullasaja Club | March 14, 2024

Recognizing and celebrating emerging talent is critical in shaping the future of club culinary. At Club + Resort Chef, we appreciate the significant role that highlighting the next generation plays. Following an extensive weeks-long search for nominations and days of debate, our 2024 list of emerging culinary talent reflects the dedication and vision of those who have stood on the shoulders of giants and set their sights on the horizon.

Nurturing Talent and Sparking Innovation: Beyond a mere roster of names, the “40 Under 40” list serves as a stage to identify, applaud, and propel the brilliance of young club and resort chefs who dare to challenge norms. In different stages of their careers, these culinary virtuosos bring forth novel perspectives and avant-garde approaches, breathing life into traditional recipes and introducing new ideas and innovations to improve the operations where they work. The recognition they receive not only crowns their diligence but also acts as a beacon, inspiring others to pursue their passion.

Igniting the Flames of Aspiration: For aspiring club chefs, witnessing their peers or role models on the “40 Under 40” is not just an accolade; it’s a transformative motivator. The acknowledgment bestowed upon these rising stars becomes a powerful symbol of hope and inspiration for those dreaming of leaving an indelible mark on the club culinary world. The list shows that age is not a barricade to success; exceptional talent propels individuals to national and international acclaim, regardless of their years of experience.

Fostering Diversity and Embracing All:  The “40 Under 40” list is pivotal in championing diversity and inclusion within the culinary sphere. The list unveils the vast and vibrant tapestry of the global food landscape by casting a spotlight on club chefs from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and culinary traditions. This inclusivity not only mirrors the evolving tastes of the modern palate but also encourages a diverse wave of aspiring chefs to enter the industry, ensuring a dynamic and varied future.

Uplifting the Industry’s Stature:  Inclusion in the “40 Under 40” list doesn’t just mark an individual achievement; it raises the culinary industry’s collective credibility and reputation. It communicates to the broader public that gastronomy is not solely about seasoned chefs with decades of experience but is equally about nurturing and celebrating emerging brilliance. This positive portrayal attracts increased attention and support for the club and resort culinary industry, fostering investment, innovation, and a profound appreciation for the craft.

Weaving Networks and Fostering Unity:  Beyond recognition, being part of the “40 Under 40” list gifts young chefs a network of like-minded trailblazers. These connections transcend mere acquaintanceship, paving the way for collaborations, mentorship, and shared learning experiences. The relationships cultivated within this community contribute significantly to the overall growth and development of the culinary world, fostering a spirit of collaboration that benefits chefs, clubs, and members alike.

This year’s “40 Under 40” celebrates talent, innovation, and diversity within the club culinary world. By recognizing and promoting the achievements of these remarkable young chefs, the list not only sparks inspiration for the next generation but also elevates the industry’s reputation, fosters inclusivity, and facilitates collaborative endeavors. As we witness the ever-evolving landscape of club and resort culinary, the “40 Under 40” list is a promising idea that the best is yet to come.

About The Author

Scott Craig, CEC, CCA, WCMC, Executive Chef, Cullasaja Club

Scott Craig is a World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS) International Certified Master Chef (WCMC) and a 2012 International Culinary Olympic gold medalist. He is currently Executive Chef of Cullasaja Club in Highlands, N.C.

Before his current role, he served as Director of Culinary Operations/Executive Chef of Myers Park Country Club in Charlotte, N.C. from 2018 until May 2022. His impressive career includes Executive Chef roles at Chevy Chase (Md.) Club and River Hills Country Club in Lake Wylie, S.C.

Craig attended Virginia Tech University before beginning his career in private clubs as a Restaurant Chef at Baltimore (Md.) Country Club and the Chevy Chase Club. He also continued his education at the Culinary Institute of America and at Johnson & Wales University.

Craig’s culinary development began during his early years in rural Southern Virginia, working in his family’s gardens and cooking alongside his great-grandmother. His philosophy on food is informed by the lessons learned during those early years: Cook seasonally, source locally and give graciously.

Craig is an American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Executive Chef, Certified Culinary Administrator, an ACF competition judge, an ACF Lead Certification Evaluator, and is a member of the ACF National Scholarship Subcommittee. He has competed frequently in ACF competitions, garnering gold medals in hot food, cold food and mystery baskets. He has been approved to judge international competitions by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies.

In March 2020, he won the title "Chef of the Year" after competing in a mystery-basket culinary competition at the 2020 Chef to Chef Conference in Charlotte. He regularly contributes to Club + Resort Chef and currently serves as a Chef to Chef Conference Coordinator.

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Search Club + Resort Chef

  • Home
  • Profiles
  • F+B
    • Culinary
    • Banquets
    • Pastry
    • Beverage
    • Recipes
  • Certification
  • 40 Under 40
    • Chef Nominations
    • Class of 2025
    • Class of 2024
    • Order: Commemorative Plaque
  • Films
    • Watch: Inside Ocean Reef
    • Watch: All Ships Rise
  • Master Class
  • Resources
    • Reports + Playbooks
      • Make Yourself Hirable: A Playbook
      • Salary Survey Data
      • Grand Gatherings: The Banquet Cookbook
      • 2025: Hottest Food Trends
    • C+R Talks
    • C+RC Association
    • Digital Issues
    • Submit Industry News
  • Chef to Chef
    • Register for Chef to Chef
    • Chef of the Year
    • Chef to Chef On Demand
  • Advertise
  • Subscribe