The memory was enough to lure her obtaining her culinary degree at the Art Institute in 2014 and, from there, to Poogan’s Porch and Mex-1. She joined the current restaurant back when it was called Union Provisions.
Best Advice a Mentor Gave You: It was my dad. When I first called and told him I was going to cook, he said, “Just remember, nobody in this industry is indispensable” It’s harsh but realistic. It keeps you humble to know that you can be replaced at any time.
"One of my first bosses told me to take the time to relax and figure out what you’re doing. Don’t get too caught up in you head and forget to focus on the big picture."
Now at Chez Nous, Tessener’s got her eye on starting her own place, probably in Raleigh. For now, though, she loves being one of five chefs at the tiny Chez Nous.
As a holder of the Best Chef of the Southeast award from the James Beard Foundation, Christensen is geared towards connecting with other common folks, building relationships, and offering a taste of her perfected food.
Bertha’s Kitchen of North Charleston was selected as a 2017 Classic’s Award Winner by the James Beard Foundation, a nod which came as a complete surprise to its owners.
The Savannah Stopover festival, a three-day music fest held over multiple venues in historic downtown Savannah, was a blast—and not only because of that infamous open-container law.
