MEET THE CHEF: Aaron James of Park 82 in Atlanta, Georgia
WRITTEN BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF
PUBLISHED JULY 2022 • 4 min read
5 Reasons to Visit® sat down with Executive Chef Aaron James of Park 82 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Executive Chef Aaron James of Park 82 in Atlanta, Georgia
Image Credit: Nicholas Jude McElroy
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I grew up on the coast of North Carolina near the Outer Banks and Virginia Beach area called Elizabeth City. Growing up there I enjoyed the fresh seafood and local farming, which gave an appreciation for the freshness work it takes to bring quality ingredients to the table. After leaving Elizabeth City I was able to do a lot of traveling and lived in some great cities. Food was always the topic whenever I reached a new city. Exploring local cuisines and learning techniques on how others executed dishes. Culinary world is infinite, you can learn from the executive chef down to the dishwasher. Taught me to be humble, open minded, and always seek knowledge.
Park 82 in Atlanta, Georgia
Image Credit: Nicholas Jude McElroy
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself.
Versatility and simplicity would be two key facts about myself that reflect my style of cooking. Working in various restaurants serving different cuisine has definitely opened my skill set and taste palate, which you can see in my cooking. Especially when it comes to the combination of ingredient infusions to keep a dish truly simple and straight to the point highlighting its natural flavor profile.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
My favorite food would be turkey chipotle gouda cheese hoagie with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, jalapeños, and herb vinaigrette. Rather hot or cold, morning or night, always in the mood for this sandwich.
Park 82 in Atlanta, Georgia
Image Credit: Nicholas Jude McElroy
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
The three ingredients I couldn't live without would be salt, pepper and butter.
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
Designing the perfect plate is so key because it's the first experience a guest has. We eat with our eyes first. Beautiful plating is an art that elevates the dish. When someone sees a beautiful plate go past, they are like what is that? I want it! Detail is everything.
Park 82 in Atlanta, Georgia
Image Credit: Nicholas Jude McElroy
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?
One of my most creative dishes I've done would have to be Black Bass with smoked black bean and jalapeño purée, topped with avocado corn salsa with celery leaves.
Park 82 in Atlanta, Georgia
Image Credit: Nicholas Jude McElroy
