Kelly Franz
Culinary Director, HMGI

Kelly Franz’s early life shaped her love of food and cooking. “Growing up in a traveling military
family often meant experiencing different cultures through food,” says Franz. “My time in the
kitchen began at a young age when I would help my father cook Sunday brunch. Food became my passion. Even grocery shopping is a safe haven for me.”
Franz moved to Charleston in 2002 to attend the Culinary Institute of Charleston (at Trident
Technical College). While a student, she joined Magnolias in November 2003, becoming the
restaurant’s Sous Chef in 2005. Franz’s leadership skills and strong work ethic propelled her
through the ranks; she became Chef de Cuisine in 2008 and Executive Chef in 2015. She was hired by Kiawah Island Club’s Food & Beverage team in 2019 and worked at several of the private restaurants, quickly rising to the position of Executive Chef at the prestigious River Course Clubhouse.
Franz has received recognition and accolades from notable publications including USA Today,
National Culinary Review and Wine Spectator. Additionally, Franz was runner-up in season 6 of
the Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen and appeared on Bite Club with (Magnolias alum) Chef
Tyler Florence. She is an active member of the Charleston community, serving the local Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier, among other causes.
When not in the kitchen at Magnolias, Chef Kelly enjoys spending time on a fishing boat in the Charleston Harbor, enjoying Folly Beach, and entertaining at her home on James Island.