Mark's passion for championing local foods began in 1972 when he made daily rounds to local growers to collect ingredients for his first restaurant's evening menu.  Further travels and training in Europe confirmed the wisdom of this timeless, regional approach to cooking.

 As the founder of The Market Place and having led the kitchen for 25 years, Mark's commitment to local food has been credited with helping stimulate the revival of authentic Southern cuisine and left it's imprint upon numerous fine regional and national chefs, many whose beginnings were in The Market Place kitchen.

His consistent interest in the world's palatable resources and his continuing excursions resulted in innovative cuisine that early on earned him a place in Food & Wine magazine's very first Honor Roll of American Chefs.  His book "In Praise of Apples" was published in 1996 and he is currently working on a second book focusing on Pinot Noir. 

 Perry Hendrix - Executive Chef

Perry Hendrix moved to Asheville after earning a degree in Botany from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.  His first culinary job was in the Market Place kitchen, where he trained for two years.  He expanded his culinary horizons working in New York; with stages at Gotham Bar and Grill, Chantrelle and Gramercy Tavern, he also worked as a protege of Gerard Pangaud, a period of study at The French Laundry and then finding his way out west, working in Salt Lake City for 4 years, two of them as Executive Chef at Metropolitan.

Jason Barrows - Dining Room Manager

Jason R. Barrows, an Upstate New York native, came to Asheville in 1999 and immediately fell in love with Asheville's rich culture.  His years of service and management experience in a variety of settings combine to ensure a quality experience for all guests at The Market Place.  When not at the restaurant or doing "market research," Jason enjoys the theatre, and has served as Music Director in several productions.

Tracy Moore - Special Parties & Office Manger

A native of Asheville, Tracy Moore has witnessed a food evolution in the region, having started her career at The Market Place in 1989.  She held various positions at the restaurant and a relocation in 2000 took her to Charlotte, N.C., where she continued in the food business.  She returned to Asheville in 2003 and her previous experience as The Market Place Dining Room Manger serves her very well as Special Parties & Office Manger.

 25th Reunion, June 10, 2004