Scott Crawford opens up about manic energy, sobriety, balance, and more.

Chef Scott Crawford opened Crawford and Son in Raleigh, NC November 2016 – a neighborhood restaurant referencing his commitment to family and community – and in 2018, it was named the “Triangle’s Restaurant of the Year.” Through his restaurant group, Crawford Hospitality, Crawford plans additional restaurants, including a French bistro, Jolie (opened August 2019) and modern American Steakhouse, Crawford Brothers.A five-time James Beard Foundation semifinalist for “Best Chef: Southeast,” Crawford also earned the coveted Forbes Five-Star award at Herons in The Umstead Hotel and Spa, at The Georgian Room at The Cloister Hotel and at The Woodlands Resort & Inn. Prior to opening Crawford and Son, he showcased his progressive take on Southern comfort food as executive chef of Standard Foods, where he also spearheaded the restaurant’s whole-animal butcher program and backyard feeder farm. Crawford’s leadership extends beyond the kitchen; he joined the Board of Ben’s Friends, and founded its Raleigh chapter – a support group for food and beverage professionals who struggle with substance abuse and addiction. Crawford is committed to introducing inspired restaurants, cultivating a healthy work-life balance in the culinary industry, and mentoring food and beverage professionals. Crawford also serves on the board for The Sunday Supper, and in 2018, led the team to raise $400K for Hurricane Florence victims. He also serves on the Honorary Committee of Healing Transitions – a place for recovery in downtown Raleigh. In 2019, The Triangle Business Journal recognized Crawford’s work, naming him “CEO of the Year.”When not in the kitchen, Crawford spends quality family time with his wife and two children, and is a mentor through Ben’s Friends.