In celebration of the month of love, we’re highlighting a few of our favorite couples in hospitality from around the region. True teammates, each of these duos have worked together to build something greater than themselves.
From developing something they’re passionate about to paying homage to their heritage, these eight southern couples have created admirable legacies in their communities.
Jim and Cheryl Hagy | Chef’s Market
Jim and Cheryl Hagy are the dynamic duo behind Chef’s Market. Twenty-seven years ago, the couple opened their restaurant in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, to bring simple yet chef-inspired dining to Middle Tennessee.
What began exclusively as a restaurant concept quickly blossomed into a catering company because folks inquired how they could input this local staple into their events. From their customizable menu to their beloved staff and team, Chef’s Market intertwines the traditional ideals of Southern comfort and Southern charm.
Seth and Tori Bolt | Bolt Farm
Bolt Farm is a serene, peaceful gem nestled in the scenic mountains of Whitwell, Tennessee. Just a forty-five-minute drive outside of Chattanooga, Bolt Farm was created by founders Tori and Seth Bolt and has since become the ideal retreat destination. The couple first met when Tori, a broadcast journalist, interviewed Seth and his NEEDTOBREATHE bandmates. At this time, Seth was in the process of building the treehouse with his dad as a spot to unwind when he wasn’t on tour—not to mention, it had always been a childhood dream of his to have one.
Tori’s special touch and inspiration completed the treehouse with an idyllic, romantic flair. The couple wed in 2016 and even had their first look and honeymoon at their new site—ultimately deciding it would be the perfect place for others to escape reality and create their own memories. Read our review here.
Jason and deMarco, GratiDude Ranch/BubbleJoy
Introducing the “dudes” behind GratiDude Ranch! After residing in Hollywood for over a decade, Jason and deMarco ventured to Leipers Fork. Spending years as touring musicians, the duo decided to buy a farm in 2014 to let their entrepreneurial dreams take flight. First and foremost a nonprofit supporting children experiencing homelessness, the community can support the mission while enjoying a tranquil getaway at the same time.
Becoming a haven for everyone who stays, GratiDude Ranch consists of the main Ranch House, a Carriage House & Loft, and a Storybook Cottage for guests to lodge in. In addition to GratiDude, the pair opened Bubble Joy, an old-fashioned speakeasy-inspired candy shop, at Leiper’s Corner shoppes in early 2024.
Félix and Leslie Landrum | La Cave
A french escape in the middle of Charleston, South Carolina, La Cave is a Parisian-inspired luxe sipping lounge and salon privé. Owners Félix and Leslie Landrum thoughtfully curated every detail from the menu to the design. Félix also owns famed Charleston hotspot Félix Cocktails et Cuisine, located right next door.
Designed by Leslie, her vision truly exceeds expectations at La Cave, leaving guests to feel they are transported to the City of Lights. The pair built a refreshing menu centered around light ingredients like olive oil, herbs, fish, and seafood. In addition to their inspired dishes, the eatery offers exclusively organic French wines among an array of specialty cocktails. Whether you stop in for a family-style meal or a light bite, La Cave will give you an exquisite taste of France without crossing the pond.
Andy and Jan Marshall | A. Marshall Hospitality
A. Marshall Hospitality is the driving force behind some of Middle Tennessee’s most prized eateries. From Puckett’s Grocery to Deacon’s New South and Scout’s Pub, founders Andy and Jan Marshall are the brains and hearts behind these restaurant concepts, along with several others across Tennessee and Alabama.
Whether dining at one of their restaurants, utilizing their catering services, or using their event space, A. Marshall Hospitality has it all… while also valuing a family atmosphere and thriving on creating true southern dining experiences.
Mike Kathrani and Tina Vora | Tamasha
Celebrating the restaurant’s one-year anniversary this February, Tamasha is an upscale Indian restaurant that is aimed at excellence. Located in the North Hills of Raleigh, North Carolina, owners Mike Kathrani and Tina Vora strived to create a luxurious experience with their modern, top-notch Indian offerings.
With Tina’s experience in the interior and fashion design industry and Mike’s background in entrepreneurship, the pair have used their expertise to elevate the eatery to new levels. Staying true to India’s beautiful heritage, Tamasha, meaning “a grand performance” in Hindi, has already won several awards and has earned praise from guests near and far.
Mark and Alex Waldo | Waldo’s Chicken & Beer
Mark Waldo is the founder of the famed southern staple Waldo’s Chicken & Beer. He and his wife, Alex—who handles the brand’s marketing, public relations, and community engagement initiatives—have joined forces to create a comfort food experience like no other.
Believing that fried chicken and beer are as good a pair as they are, the couple has now opened restaurants in several states across the South. In addition to being entrepreneurs and raising their two young children, the pair are passionate about charitable efforts and raising awareness for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and blood cancer support.
David and Tara Tieman | Five Points Pizza
David and Tara Tieman are two of the three owners behind one of Nashville’s favorite pizza joints, Five Points Pizza. With locations on both the east and west sides of town, the highly praised shop was named after its original neighborhood and perfectly embodies the trendy, local atmosphere found there.
Before opening Five Points, the pair were attorneys living in New York City. Striving to bring a touch of the Big Apple to Music City, the shop has become a fan-favorite since its inception in September 2011.
Mikey Corona and Brian Riggenbach | The Mockingbird
Mikey Corona and Brian Riggenbach met in Chicago while studying fine arts and found themselves drawn to the restaurant industry. They eventually began hosting underground supper clubs for friends, and that passion fueled their first brick-and-mortar restaurant, The Mockingbird, in Nashville with the support of chef Maneet Chauhan. Their bold move to the South paid off, as they built a reputation for their bright and upbeat approach to hospitality, seamlessly combining their artistic backgrounds with a deep love of food.
Their latest venture, Tío Fun, reflects their Mexican heritage and honors their roles as fun-loving tíos, serving nostalgic dishes with a playful twist (like chicken sandwich-topped chilaquiles). Read more about their culinary journey rooted in friendship and love here.
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