Chester, Philadelphia native, Alicia Smith, was first attracted to the hospitality industry at 17 when she worked as a server after school. She was a natural when it came to the in’s-and-out’s of food and beverage – interacting with patrons, creating memorable experiences for clients, the fast-paced nature – and she’s been hooked ever since. Alicia was promoted to First Sous Chef 5 short years after beginning her hospitality turned culinary career. Soon thereafter, her career took off: she was invited to cook at the James Beard House in NYC, she participated in multiple American Culinary Federation competitions, and embarked on a 3-week Culinary Food Tour through Italy, all before settling into the Executive Chef position with Cru Catering. Alicia is a self-proclaimed, level-headed leader in the kitchen who works well under pressure. She keeps an organized work station and is able to easily adapt to any situation that is thrown her way, which is exceedingly crucial to the catering world. Smith particularly enjoys managing a fleet of people all while successfully producing delicious and beautiful food. In her free time, you can find Alicia enjoying the great outdoors, exploring the culinary scene of new cities or trying new restaurants in and around Charleston.