Chef Todd Richards joins the Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead as Executive Chef, orchestrating all culinary operations at the Forbes 4-star hotel, including the property’s on-site restaurant Brassica, signature tea service, in-room dining and banquets. Richards, a celebrated Atlanta-based chef, award-winning author and four-time James Beard Award semifinalist, brings a nationally recognized voice, deep cultural storytelling and a guest-centered approach to one of the city’s most distinguished destinations.
Richards joins Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead following an impressive career that has shaped Atlanta's dining scene and left a mark beyond the city. He previously served as the opening chef for One Flew South at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where his team made history as the first airport restaurant to contend for a James Beard Award, and he is the chef and part-owner of popular soul food spot, Soul: Food & Culture, at Krog Street Market. A twice-published author, his debut cookbook, Soul: A Chef’s Culinary Evolution in 150 Recipes, won the 2019 IACP Award for Best American Cookbook and was named one of the Best Cookbooks of the Year by Grub Street and Food52. Roots, Heart, Soul: The Story, Celebration, and Recipes of Afro Cuisine in America, released in 2024, further cemented his role as a leading culinary storyteller and inspired his podcast of the same name.
“After years in restaurants, returning to luxury hospitality felt like an unexpected and exciting next chapter,” says Executive Chef Todd Richards. “What drew me to Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead was the opportunity to cook with real intention and freedom. The entire team encouraged me to shape a dining experience that reflects both this city and my Southern perspective. The food is seasonal, expressive and technique-driven, while still delivering the sense of refinement guests expect. It’s exceptional hotel dining with a strong sense of place, seen through my lens of Atlanta.”
In the kitchen with Chef Todd Richards
Best knife for a home cook to up their home-cooking game?
I would recommend Misen Knives. They stay sharp and clean very easily.
Kitchen appliance worth spending the big bucks on?
A well-seasoned cast-iron pan is a must. It’s the most versatile and naturally non-stick.
Most expensive or rare ingredient you'll be cooking with this summer at the Waldorf?
Georgia Lamb. Most people use lamb from Australia or Virginia, but Georgia lamb has plenty of flavor and is less gamey than others.