Ash Said It® Daily

The 2026 Georgia Food + Wine Festival is officially the epicenter of Southern culinary innovation, and no one captures its essence better than Chef Jernard Wells. As the festival's Brand Ambassador and the celebrated "Family Chef," Wells recently joined The Ash Said It show to break down the flavor, culture, and "New Soul" philosophy defining this year’s massive celebration at Jim R. Miller Park. The combination of talent perfectly mirrors the festival’s balance of grit, hospitality, and bold evolution. Even when discussing his legendary Georgia Peach Hot Chicken Sandwich, Wells emphasized that pushing boundaries isn't about discarding tradition; it’s about using "New Soul" techniques to elevate classic Georgia ingredients, ensuring every bite tells a story of both heritage and high-concept culinary art. For families attending the Sunday/Funday events, Wells identified the Gourmet Mac & Cheese Bar as the ultimate cross-generational experience. It serves as a culinary bridge where a child’s comfort food me