With a deep belief that “all cultures celebrate, grieve, and come together around a table,” Chef Damarr Brown brings a soulful, refined approach to Southern cuisine as Chef de Cuisine of Virtue Restaurant and Top This Mac & Cheese. His culinary journey, shaped by years working alongside James Beard Award-winning Chef Erick Williams at the acclaimed mk, has cemented him as a rising force in the industry.

Brown gained national recognition as a finalist and “Fan Favorite” on Top Chef Houston, where his precision, creativity, and storytelling through food captivated audiences. His talent has since earned him Food & Wine’s Best New Chef in America (2022) and the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s Emerging Chef award (2023), solidifying his place among the country’s most exciting culinary leaders.

Beyond the accolades, Brown is dedicated to mentorship and community impact. As a leader in the Virtue Leadership Development program, he nurtures the next generation of talent, offering hands-on training and guidance—just as Chef Williams once did for him.

With a commitment to excellence and a passion for preserving and evolving Southern culinary traditions, Brown continues to inspire, lead, and push the boundaries of modern American dining.

Generously supported by Talya Arbisser and Joel Gluskin