Before they prepare fabulous food for a great event, our chefs listen carefully and ask questions, imagine possibilities, and communicate well with their client. This is what makes Jim Smith and Chris Rains special. They have spent their careers knowing that a strong client relationship comes before a great meal and memorable event.

Jim Smith, Owner and Managing Chef

Jim has been in the food business for more than thirty years. He has always been the senior person responsible to “make it happen.”  He knows very well each aspect of successful food operations: kitchen management, menu development, and collaboration with chefs, service staff, and event planners. At the end of the day he delivers. Great food and total event success has always been Jim’s passion and objective.

Chris Rains, Haw River Catering Executive Chef

Chris works alongside Jim as Executive Chef in Haw River Catering. He is well known as one of Nashville’s best and most creative chefs with twenty years in the “white coat.” His reputation is well deserved. He was the Executive Chef at the Wildhorse Saloon, where he catered hundreds of events annually while also being executive chef of the restaurant. His success then took him to the Sommet Center as Executive Chef and then into a close relationship with the Nashville Predators to meet their food and event needs.