Columbus Chamber Board announces new director

COLUMBUS – The Columbus Chamber of Commerce introduces its newest member of the Board of Directors, Chef Raoul, owner of Chef Raoul Catering.

The Chamber said the current board appointed Chef Raoul to fill a recently vacated seat on the board and will serve until 2025 when he will be eligible to run for re-election.

Born and raised in the cultural melting pot of New Orleans, Chef Raoul learned to appreciate all the imaginative and classical cuisines that characterize his hometown, according to a release. In the kitchen, alongside his mother and grandmother, he developed a passion for bringing people together through good food. His skills in math and science led him to earn multiple degrees in chemistry, becoming a chemical engineer and even working for NASA, where he got in trouble for fattening up a few astronauts with his homemade cakes. After exploring a few other professions, he decided to pursue his passion for cooking by apprenticeship under a dear friend, Chef John.

Now, as executive chef and owner of Chef Raoul Catering, Chef Raoul can pursue his dream of mastering cuisines, according to a release. French, Italian, Cajun, Barbecue, Mexican, and even Indian food...no cooking style is beyond his reach, the Chamber said. His attention to detail results in incredible food, as he never stops until he perfects every recipe, even if it means making dozens of test batches to get it right (as his family attests). He extensively researches every new cuisine and is passionate about doing things the right way: the old-fashioned way. His devotion to classical cooking is matched by his enthusiasm for classical décor, resulting in beautiful displays that bring elegance to any event.

“Columbus is a very special place where I can serve God by serving the community,” Chef Raoul said.

“We are happy to have Chef Raoul join us at the Chamber,” Janet Hol lmann, events director, said. “He will be an incredible asset to the Chamber and the community.”

You can find Chef Raoul on the Courthouse Square during Country Market on the last Saturday of the month and share his secrets and recipes by holding cooking classes at Kitchen Thyme.

“Columbus is a very special place where I can serve God by serving the community”

Chef Raoul, new Chamber of Commerce board member