Chef Robert L. Butts is an award-winning culinary talent celebrated for his inventive approach to Southern cuisine—infused with global influences and a deep respect for tradition. With over a decade of experience leading some of Atlanta’s most acclaimed kitchens, Chef Butts has earned a reputation for creativity, mentorship, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
A Georgia native, Chef Butts discovered his passion for cooking early on through joyful moments spent in the kitchen with his family—captivated by how food could bring people together. That sense of connection sparked a lifelong culinary journey that has now spanned more than 12 years.
Chef Butts graduated from the Art Institute of Charlotte with a Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts and holds a Bachelor of Arts and Letters in Mass Communication Arts from Johnson C. Smith University, with a minor in Journalism and Broadcasting. After completing his formal training, he moved to the south of France to refine his technique and deepen his understanding of classical French cuisine.
Throughout his career, Chef Butts has led the kitchens of several of Atlanta’s top restaurants, including Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, where he rose from Executive Sous Chef to Executive Chef, as well as Simons Restaurant and Salt Yard Atlanta. He has also collaborated with award-winning chefs and had the honor of cooking at the James Beard House.
Known primarily for his elevated take on Southern cuisine, Chef Butts also draws inspiration from Asian and Indian flavors, blending tradition with innovation in each dish he creates. For him, cooking is about more than food—it’s about storytelling, emotion, and creating experiences that connect people.
Driven by passion, purpose, and the joy of creating meaningful connections through food, Chef Robert continues to elevate the culinary landscape—one dish, one story, and one experience at a time.