SOUTHERN CHEF, CEO OF C3 Culinary Group & FOUNDER OF GULLAH GOURMET BRAND ENTERPRISES
Meet Chef Carlos Brown
Considered “a Leading Influencer in the Culinary Arts,” Chef Carlos Brown is the CEO of C3 Culinary Group, a purpose-driven hospitality group and Founder of Gullah Gourmet. Growing up in the south, his innovative approach featuring “Gullah” cuisine and culture has touched everything from the NFL football field to the Smithsonian African-American Museum in Washington, D.C., where his Shrimp and Grits recipe is recognized.
Born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Chef Carlos was born and immersed in the rich cultural heritage and flavors of the Gullah Geechee culture, a uniquely blended heritage of African, French, European, and Native Indigenous American influences found only through the coasts of the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. This flavorful and vibrant upbringing sparked his passion for food where he has combined both Gullah Geechee and French Fusion cooking, instilling in him and his consumers a deep appreciation for the diverse culinary traditions found in the region.
Starting his culinary journey as an apprentice at a local restaurant, Chef Carlos quickly honed his skills and distinguished himself with his innovative approach to cooking. His unique blend of traditional southern flavors with French techniques gained him acclaim and recognition. After graduating with a Culinary Arts degree from Johnson and Wales University, Brown opened Gullah Cuisine in 2013 and Shrimp & Grits Café in 2020.
Throughout his illustrious career, Chef Carlos has worked in many esteemed kitchens nationwide, perfecting his craft and expanding his repertoire. From upscale fine dining establishments to rustic farm-to-table restaurants, he has consistently expanded culinary boundaries with his exceptional creations, such as when his Gullah-inspired dishes were displayed at the Art Meso event during New York Fashion Week. In addition to his recognition in the Smithsonian African American Museum, his achievements include the 2021 Jefferson Award and the 2020 National Black Chef Awards Culinary Excellence Award. Perhaps his favorite though is celebrating “Chef Carlos Brown Day” on August 25, which is celebrated in his hometown of Charleston every year.
With his innate ability to blend culture with cuisine, he has served his innovative southern-style recipes to many special guests, including President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Shaquille O’Neal, Jim Carrey, Viola Davis, Fantasia, Darla Moore, ‘Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Ray Lewis – to name a few. Many professional athletes in the NFL and NCAA seek Chef Carlos’ guidance for curating recipes – combining healthy eating with his upscale southern cuisine style- ultimately inspiring Carlos’ most recent product endeavor, Gullah Gourmet.
Recognizing the power of food to bring people together and create change, Chef Carlos has dedicated himself to various charitable initiatives focused on food education and accessibility. Through his advocacy and educational workshops like C3 Culinary Camp for the Youth, he aims to preserve and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of the Gullah cuisine and flavors of this culinary tradition.
Chef Carlos continues to push boundaries, creating unforgettable dining experiences and inspiring both professional chefs and home cooks. His passion for food, coupled with his dedication to philanthropy, serves as a beacon of inspiration to those who aspire to make a positive impact through their culinary endeavors. He carries his mother’s wisdom, “The Humble Child always Tastes the Grace,” as a guiding light in his life’s journey.
CELEBRITY REVIEWS
Great food! and salad dressings! sensational Chef.
This food talks to you! It’s a wow factor.
“My experience with Gullah On The Go and Celebrity Chef Carlos Brown is definitely one to remember. My twentieth birthday celebration was catered by their hospitable and A1 team. It was nothing short of AMAZING.”
Incredible Chef! I APPRECIATE all you do
Great heart, absolutely amazing food, that would change your life.
Chef Carlos Brown has a recipe for success, and it makes you keep coming.
