Cooking has been a part of the Edwards family for three generations — and it’s a legacy Chef Adam Edwards enjoys carrying on.
“It’s huge for me to continue what (my grandfather and father, Walter Edwards Sr. and Jr.) started. People come up to me and tell me how my grandfather was the reason they started eating sushi or they had my dad’s food when he was at A La Carte,” says the 35-year-old.
Food naturally has been a part of Edwards’ life since his youth, when he would watch cooking shows with his father and then make recipes they saw. But his training in culinary practices truly began at Bosse High School during a half-day culinary program and in the time he helped his father cook at A La Carte Food & Wine Shop, a popular catering and dining spot on South Green River Road from 1989 to 2007. After graduation, Edwards studied at Johnson and Wales in Miami, Florida, earning an associate’s degree in culinary arts and a bachelor’s degree in food service management.
His career path has led him to chef positions in many restaurants in Evansville and the area (including the Petroleum Club, a former private dining club at the top of 420 Main St. building). But three years ago he made a shift, focusing more on private interactions through hands-on lessons and providing three-course meals for dinner parties.
“I can still utilize what I love to do and be creative, but just do it one night at a time for one family or group,” says Edwards.
For each of his services, Edwards talks with clients and prepares recipes. He then cooks the meal for them to taste and see how the food is brought together. For private parties, clients can participate in preparation or just mingle with guests as Edwards cooks. He also works with the Welborn Foundation’s Upgrade program and the Historic Newburgh Famers Market.
“I like teaching people how to cook,” he says. “And I like changing people’s minds about certain foods. If they don’t like something, I can make it in a different way for them to try. I like that aspect.”
Get Cooking:
812-319-7887 • chefadamedwards.com
