Aneesha Hargrave is a Compton, CA-based chef and strategic foodservice consultant with over two decades of experience driving flavor-forward, culturally rich innovation across the hospitality and food industries. With a deep passion for the intersection of food, culture, and community, Aneesha has built a career shaping the culinary direction of fast-growing brands and global organizations alike. 

From her pivotal role as Executive Chef and R&D Chef at the Top 250 chain Chopt Salad to her tenure as Lead Culinary Specialist at Impossible Foods, where she guided partnerships with international giants like Compass Group, Aneesha has consistently led the way as a trusted relationship builder, industry trend spotter, and culinary taste maker. She now serves as a Creative Culinary Strategist for Ithaka Hospitality Partners, bringing bold, inclusive, and globally inspired menus to life. 

A dedicated researcher and storyteller, Aneesha studies the culinary traditions of the Black American experience and weaves that legacy into her work. She brings these stories to life through thoughtful recipe development and menu design. Her latest work as Chef and Culinary Director for the Elevation Convening Center & Hotel in Montgomery, Alabama, reflects her commitment to honoring history, heritage, and hospitality through food.