Ashleigh Shanti is Chef de Cuisine of Benne on Eagle in Asheville, NC. Working closely Chef Fleer, Ashleigh pays homage to the rich African-American culinary traditions that once thrived in The Block – the neighborhood surrounding the restaurant – as well as honoring her own history as a Southern, African-American female.
Born in in St. Mary’s, GA and raised in Virginia Beach, VA, Ashleigh’s heritage has roots across the Southeast. When her parents insisted she find a job at age 16, Ashleigh chose one with long hours and grueling tasks – a kitchen – in the hopes that they would balk. And so, it was this first job, chosen out of rebellion, where Ashleigh unexpectedly solidified her future career path.
She is proud to help Chef Fleer build Benne on Eagle’s culinary program from the ground up by following the theme of Sankofa: progressing forward and integrating new food techniques and methods, while looking back to history to reclaim lost and forgotten traditions.
