LIFESTYLE

CHEF SOSA

Chef

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Chad Hester – affectionately known as “Sosa” – was born in Augusta, Georgia, where he grew-up in a traditionally Southern household. In his family, food was prepared with love, and those consuming it were not only filled with slow-cooked cuisine, but the feeling of joy was palatable. It is an instinctive, intangible ingredient that Chef Sosa observed by watching his grandmother, mother and sister prepare family meals for occasions large and small – and now, is engrained in him. What at first was a chore to prep the vegetables, became second nature and an instinctive ability to craft soulful dishes – just like the women who taught him.</br></br> Soon after graduating from Georgia Southern University, a moment of divine intervention guided him to Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts where he graduated Presidents List. His formal education in the kitchen elevated his culinary abilities into an art form, though his family’s influence continued to serve as his unshakeable foundation, explaining “my parents raised us with a motto they called the Five Ps – ‘poor planning prevents proper performance.’ That philosophy continues to guide everything in my life that I set to achieve, especially the dishes that begin as an idea and are later crafted into delicious flavors for others to enjoy.” What at first was a chore to prep the vegetables, became second nature and an instinctive ability to craft soulful dishes. </br></br> Chef Sosa is often lauded for his creativity in the kitchen among Georgia’s culinary insiders, as well as his unwavering commitment to the Atlanta community. In November 2020, he with a few other restaurateurs and influential community leaders packaged boxes of fresh fruits, vegetables and other classic Thanksgiving dinner items to support more than 1,000 families for the holiday. Additionally, he organized a restaurant-industry awards program to uplift the spirits of those working to make it through the impact of the global pandemic. </br></br> No matter the moment, Chef Sosa’s connection to others and his instinctive ability to make people smile – regardless if he is preparing food with love or celebrating the hard-work of others – is a gift. Humbly, he says he’s “just a cook” who genuinely loves to make good food, but those who know him celebrate the greater impact he has on the people and community he serves.

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