Name: Chef Mark Driskill

Name of Business: Ash

Restaurant Address: 705 Oak Grove Road, Homewood, AL

Where were you born and raised?

Born in Rome, GA, raised in Gadsden, AL.

What inspired you to become a chef?

The memories of my grandmother cooking and the excitement, joy, anticipation, and comfort her food would give others.

Where did you train to become a chef?

I studied at Johnson & Wales Culinary School in Charlotte, NC, then I trained at Highlands Bar & Grill in Birmingham, AL.

What other jobs have you worked within the food industry?

I helped run various parts of the food studios/test kitchens for Time Inc. (Southern Living, Food & Wine, etc.).

What does your typical workday involve?

I’m the first one in! I pick through the wood for kindling and I start our fire, first thing. Then I prep major items such as breaking down proteins for dinner or making huge batches of aioli. After that, I move on to ironing out the details, always getting interrupted by owner duties along the way.

Who is the most notable person you’ve ever cooked for?

Anthony Bourdain.

What are your favorite hobbies?

Fishing and disc golf.

If you weren’t a chef, what line of work would you pursue?

Acting.

What’s your favorite seafood dish to serve up for you and your family?

In the spring, I love doing grilled shrimp over rice full of green veggies, mint, and lemon.

What makes Alabama Gulf Seafood special?

Other than pride? The quality that you see is unmatched. It’s like our own Mediterranean!