Chef of the Month: Christian Watson of The Waverly Local
Chef Christian Watson
The Waverly Local
1465 Patrick St., Waverly, AL 3687
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in South Carolina and raised in Auburn, AL.
What inspired you to become a chef?
Working on the family farm growing up.
What others jobs have you worked within the food industry?
I've worked on private yachts on both U.S. coasts. As far as land goes, I worked in a couple kitchens in Charleston, SC, and I was most recently the executive chef at the Pine Creek Sporting Club in Okeechobee, FL.
Who are the most noteworthy people you’ve cooked for?
Bill Murray, Jack Nicklaus, Tommy Mottola, Nick Price, Jesse Jackson, Alan Dershowitz, and Richie Sambora.
What’s the most unusual thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
Going back to the last question, after a long, intense night, it was crazy to look up and see Bill Murray in the kitchen. He'd come to thank us for a great meal.
What are your favorite hobbies?
Spending time with my family. Which ideally means wake surfing on Lake Martin.
If you won the lottery, how would you spend your winnings?
I'd put it toward the battle to fight against food insecurity.
If you could cook for any celebrity of historical figure, who would it be?
Sam Cooke.
What’s your favorite seafood dish to serve up for yourself and your family?
Nothing better than fried Flounder with slaw and French fries. And some Wickles tartar sauce.
What makes Alabama Gulf Seafood special?
It's all about the undeniable passion and pride that our fisherman have. They continue to bless us with the finest seafood in the country every day!