Chef Spotlight
Forage Society brings together a collective of chefs who see food as both craft and experience — an invitation to connect, celebrate, and linger a little longer around the table.
Inspired by global cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and immersive hospitality, our chefs create thoughtfully curated dining experiences that engage all the senses. Every menu is designed with intention, balancing refined technique with warmth, creativity, and a deep appreciation for atmosphere and storytelling.
From intimate private dinners to large-scale experiential gatherings, each event is approached as a complete composition — where food, music, setting, and human connection come together seamlessly. The result is more than exceptional dining; it is a moment guests carry with them long after the evening ends.
Click the link and complete a short form, so we can get an understanding of your needs and dream dining experience. Jason will contact you personally within 48 hours.
Meet Our Chefs
Chef McDaniel Cooper
Meet Chef McDaniel Cooper, a passionate culinary talent from Johnson City, Tennessee.
His journey began in a small Mexican restaurant and led him through notable kitchens like Union Jacks and Koi in Knoxville, before heading west to California’s Looking Glass House. There, his entrepreneurial spirit flourished with the launch of Brothers Pantry catering.
In 2015, Chef Mac returned to Asheville, where he began exploring Italian and Appalachian cuisine. By 2017, he founded Ciao Y’all Catering Co., blending Southern warmth with Italian elegance.
His menus celebrate local flavors, emphasize aging and preservation techniques, and are crafted with accessibility and inclusivity in mind. His culinary creations are a testament to his dedication to bringing people together through food, welcoming all to his table with open arms and a delicious promise of joy.
Chef Emma
Chef Emma has lived and worked in the Asheville area for over 15 years.
She began her food journey through obtaining her Bachelor’s in Nutrition from Western Carolina University. While originally working in kitchens as a part time job to support her studies, she fell in love with the world of culinary arts and never looked back!
After graduating, she earned her Culinary degree at AB Tech while simultaneously competing on their student Hot Food Team - notably earning a Bronze Medal at the National ACF Competition. Emma gravitated towards building her career in the Private Club sector; working notable stints at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, and Old Edwards Inn & Spa, a Forbes Relais & Châteaux property known for sustainable luxury.
Emma reached the pinnacle of her career earning the position of Executive Chef at Balsam Mountain Preserve, and found a deep passion for the intimacy of elevated in-home dining.
Chef Emma is inspired by utilizing fresh and local ingredients; specializing in Southern Appalachian, Classical French, and South-Eastern Asian cuisines. Emma brings a confident, flexible, and inclusive approach to every in-home culinary experience.
