Executive Chef Mark Keiser leads the kitchen at The James, a neighborhood restaurant offering traditional American fare in the heart of James Island. Hailing from Cleveland, OH, Keiser discovered his love for cooking early on, honing his skills alongside his grandmother by helping her prepare family meals. He pursued his culinary education at Johnson and Wales University in Charleston, SC, where he studied culinary arts. From his journey as a line cook to Executive Chef at Oak Steakhouse in Charleston, Keiser has garnered a reputation for his exceptional culinary talent and leadership in his twenty two years of working in restaurants. Fueled by his passion for cooking and his dedication to creating extraordinary experiences for both diners and employees, Keiser believes in the power of simple preparations executed at a high level, emphasizing natural flavors that excite and entice. Seasonality plays a significant role in his approach, as he seeks to showcase the best of each ingredient. Keiser’s commitment extends beyond the kitchen, and he prides himself on mentoring and teaching his team, inspiring and fostering growth in The James’ staff. With a similar commitment to the Lowcountry community, Keiser is passionate about giving back by hosting regular charity dinners and participating in charitable events. Outside of his professional pursuits, Keiser enjoys spending leisure time with his wife and their two dogs in nearby Johns Island, working on home projects like gardening and landscaping, and exploring the local dining scene.