Edley's Bar-B-Que - Jacob Burke

As Director of Culinary Operations for Edley's Bar-B-Que, Jacob Burke has had a passion for food his whole life. Jacob held leading roles in the food industry for twelve years, holding GM positions at O’Charley’s and Logan’s Roadhouse before taking on his current role with Edley’s.

Outside of work, Jacob enjoys spending his time cooking, fishing, gardening, and raising chickens. He currently resides in Fariview, TN with his wife Sabrina and three children Arabella, Jacob Jr., and Atticus.

Anzie Blue - Chef Star Maye

Growing up in a segregated Alabama town, life was not easy for Star Maye, but spending time in the kitchen and learning the art of soul food from her beloved grandmother gave her an escape. Chef Maye joins Anzie Blue with an extensive culinary background, previously holding leadership positions at well-known dining venues such as The Palm, City Winery and the Governor’s Club. As a graduate of the Culinary Institute, and after honing her craft over the last 20 years, Maye is passionate about creating distinctive dishes inspired by her love of soul food. 

It is all too rare that restaurants, especially in the South, announce the appointment of female, BIPOC and queer kitchen leaders, but Star's executive chef appointment shows that there is hope for those who don't fit the executive chef "mold." Maye is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, a single mother and holds a wealth of culinary experience. Chef Star has been featured in the Huffington Post, Forbes, Nashville Scene, The Tennessean, and Eater.

In addition to her extensive knowledge of the food and beverage industry, Chef Maye is also a veteran of the US Navy and has garnered many accolades, including winning the Gulf Coast BBQ Festival and earning first runner-up for the Culinary Fight Club. Although she has many culinary accomplishments, when asked what her greatest accomplishment is, she always says her son.

Photo credit: Mary Craven Photography

Central BBQ - Joe Cannella

Joe Cannella is a passionate leader in the food service industry with over 25 years of experience. He moved to Nashville in 2006, where he was a part of bringing Dunkin Donuts to our city, serving as their regional manager. He later went on to work for Moe's Southwest Grill for another 5 years. For the last several years, Joe has been in Memphis style BBQ, now working as the Regional Director of Central BBQ in Nashville.