If you’ve enjoyed a dessert at Chestnut recently, you know how special our pastry team is. Molly is the assistant to our pastry chef, Mallory, and helps us put out the sheer volume of incredible desserts that we make in house.

How long have you worked for Chestnut, and what’s your current position?

I’ve been working at Chestnut for only 3 months! I am the pastry assistant to our wonderful pastry chef, Mallory.

Are you an Asheville local, or alternatively what brought you here?

I’m a transplant from Wisconsin of all places! I came upon Asheville kind of on accident, moving here right before the start of the pandemic. That bit wasn’t ideal, but we made do!

What is your favorite thing you’ve eaten at the restaurant?

The best bite of food I’ve had at Chestnut is hands down the fried green tomatoes— stacked high with layers of pimento, crispy kale, and tomato jam. They never fail to satisfy, and are quite a staple at the restaurant.

What lessons have you learned working in the service industry?

Oh boy, I have been in the restaurant/service industry for as long as I can remember. I think the number one lesson I’ve learned from industry is accountability. Own your mistakes, don’t make excuses, learn from it and move forward. This industry has also allowed me to see what I’m capable of when I think I can’t do something. It definitely has helped build my character.

If you could only pick two or three places for foodies to try in Asheville, what would you suggest?

Without a doubt, my top pick would be Wild Ginger in south AVL. Not only is their team the sweetest, hardest working people, but they have the best pho in town and the most amazing banh mi I’ve ever had. Pick number 2 would be Citizen Vinyl/ Session Café on O’Henry Ave. Many might simply see it as a café/bar, but they always have so much cool stuff going on. They spin vinyl for the entirety of the day, host special artist events, and of course they have perfectly crafted sandwiches, soups, salads, and pastries. Definitely a go-to.

What is your biggest passion(s) outside the restaurant?

My passions outside of restaurant life are vast! Similar to being a cook of every type, art takes up a big part of my life. I am a dancer, painter, and I also love photography. The outdoors hold a special place in my heart too. You can catch me hiking and traveling outside of being Chestnut’s pastry assistant!