Feature
In the Kitchen with 'Top Chef' Chris Viaud Q&A with the Restaurateur and 'Top Chef' Competitor Meet Chris Viaud (Johnson & Wales '09), owner of two restaurants (Greenleaf and Culture), ‘Top Chef ’ contestant, father, and proud member of Sigma Pi. Did we mention he’s accomplished all this by 30? While the pandemic set many back, Chef Chris didn’t let it slow him down! Chef Chris sat down with us to share his experience as a brother, how he opened his second restaurant during the pandemic and competed in season 18 of Bravo’s ‘Top Chef.’
FRATERNAL EXPERIENCE What does it mean to you to be a Sigma Pi? I joined Sigma Pi in 2009 [at Johnson & Wales], and it was the time of my life. The bond of brotherhood is real, and I am extremely grateful for that opportunity as an undergraduate. That was a time of meaningful growth for personal development while also interacting with people who shared the same mission of comradery and community service. I am so grateful I still have connections with those brothers. If you could give any advice to the younger version of yourself or 16
to an undergraduate now, what would it be? Take advantage of all the opportunities at the school, whether it be additional learning services or community development; take charge of your own actions, but make sure you're having a great time while doing it. LIFE AS A RESTAURATEUR You've opened two restaurants before the age of 30. How did you accomplish these milestones at such a young age? To open two restaurants before 30 was an incredible feat for me. It was just a case of being in the right place
at the right time and knowing the right people. You just need to put yourself out there and be vulnerable. Involve yourself with the people around you, and it will pay off. Tell us about your restaurant, Greenleaf.
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Greenleaf is an upscale farm-totable experience that is seasonally inspired. The goal was to be involved in the community and get the best food in the area. Culture Bread is the sister restaurant to Greenleaf. How did it come to fruition? Culture is a bakery and sandwich shop that came out of necessity. Summer 2021
