2025 Best Chef: Abrien Chastain

May 16th, 2025 in Ellijay Restaurant Week

Congratulations to Abrien Chastain for winning Best Chef in the 2025 Ellijay Restaurant Week! 🏆✨

Abrien started his journey at The Roof nearly five years ago, beginning as a dishwasher while still in high school, helping launch the restaurant as part of the original team, and working at Kasei Sushi and Sake. Since then, he’s worked his way up through talent, dedication, and a genuine love for cooking. When he’s not creating standout dishes in the kitchen, he enjoys cooking for friends and family and spending time under the hood of his truck.

We are so happy for you, Abrien, and we’re grateful for the creativity, passion, and hard work you bring to Ellijay’s vibrant food scene! 👨‍🍳✨

About Ellijay Restaurant Week

Ellijay Restaurant Week is an annual celebration of Gilmer County’s vibrant food scene.
It’s a time to spotlight the chefs, teams, and establishments that make Ellijay such a special place to eat, gather, and connect. Whether it’s a local pub, a locally owned vineyard, or a fine dining spot, each venue brings its own flavor and heart to our town. Restaurant Week is our chance to say thank you, show support, and recognize the hard work behind every great meal.

A special shoutout to this year’s finalists in the Best Chef category: Abby Prieto (The Shack) and Mike Hernandez (Big Bear Bar & Grill). Thank you!