Chef’s Table - Bucking Convention

A self-described “chatterbox” who takes every opportunity to learn by talking with people, Cobb Galleria Centre’s executive sous-chef Greg Maddox is hardly a man of mystery - unless you’re trying to taste his food. Forget the adjoining mall’s food court. Booking a convention at Cobb Galleria is your best bet. You could also hire Maddox’s catering company, Have Knives Will Travel, where Maddox creates dishes for you and your guests at home, and teaches you a few things in the process.

Creative Loafing: What’s your training?

Maddox: I’ve basically cooked all my life. Both my parents were Southern traditional-style cooks, whether making green beans or sweet potatoes - I mean cookin’ without a “G.” I started my formal education in 1989 at Stouffer hotels in Pine Isle.

Highlights?

During 1996, I was sous-chef for all the French big wigs [at the Peachtree Club]. We had a lot of people come through the club, all the medal parties. I stuffed a lot of grape tomatoes!

What’s the specialty of Have Knives Will Travel?

Trying to cater to people who like to eat, whether they know a lot about food or not. I ask them, ‘When you close your eyes, what do you see yourself eating?’ I try to find out what they’re looking for. Sometimes I get, ‘Just surprise me,’ but even with that, it’s, ‘Do you wish for a seafood menu? Is there something you’re not looking for?’”

Do you like working for hotels and conventions rather than restaurants?

The thing about hotels is that they are run 24/7, so if something goes wrong at 3 o’clock in the morning, you’re liable to get the call. [With restaurants or clubs,] you’ve got a smaller facility to deal with, and if you think about it, it’s micro-busy.

How do you balance the Have Knives gigs with your day job and family?

I only do it if it’s a special occasion and season where you can take the time off. As you get into middle summer, it gets really slow. This job has been really fair with helping me spend time off with my family. And [my wife] Debbie is a saint.

2 Galleria Parkway. 770-955-8000. www.cobbgalleria.com.

chefstable@creativeloafing.com






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