Meet Chef Jason Smith at Mast Store on December 7

Self-taught chef and Food Network star Jason Smith is signing his recently released cookbook, Lord Honey: Traditional Southern Recipes with a Country Bling Twist, at the Mast General Store in Downtown Columbia on Thursday, December 7, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Chef Jason began his professional career as a school cafeteria manager, but he started learning the art of cooking from his grandmother at the age of six.

Complete with colorful descriptions, accessible ingredients, simple directions, and helpful tips, Chef Jason’s cookbook showcases the culinary legacy passed down through his granny’s Kentucky kitchen. Each recipe is an homage to her and his cherished home state as he shares his love of food, family, and entertaining.

Chef Jason shared, “Food is really what brings people together, and that’s me. I love bringing people together to have a good time and making memories.”

In addition to appearances on nationally televised food shows like the Rachael Ray Show and A&E’s Deliciously Twisted Classics, Chef Jason is a regular contributor of recipes and articles to Southern Living, Martha Stewart Living, AllRecipes.com, and more. He remains active with the School Nutrition Association by making presentations across the country.

Jason may be referred to as a “celebrity chef,” but his cooking remains grounded in his roots as he refashions cherished classics, Southern traditions, and odes to the homespun, which are innovative while staying true to his granny’s style.

Copies of Lord Honey: Traditional Southern Recipes with a Country Bling Twist will be available at the Mast Store, or you can bring in your own copy to be signed. It will make a great addition to any kitchen’s cookbook library, especially for those who are interested in carrying on their family or region’s style of cooking or simply for their own tasty enjoyment.

The Mast Store in Columbia is located at 1601 Main Street. If you have questions, please call the store at 803-771-2300.