Freshly prepared, delicious meals are a huge perk of Prime Carolina Coast in Conway!
One of the huge reasons people love living in a Prime Independent Living community is the excellent dining (think scratch-made, upscale meals prepared by a professional chef).
Culinary Director Rory Watts II is an experienced award-winning chef who has trained with some of the best – and now he is bringing his knowledge, passion and love of food to Prime Carolina Coast. Dining is serious business here, so let’s get to know Chef Watts a little better.
The Journey
The road to the Prime Carolina Coast dining room was winding in the best possible way. After spending time working in German restaurant kitchens, Chef Watts trained under renowned chefs and graduated from ICI of Myrtle Beach in 2016. He has held prominent positions including Sous Chef at Waterscapes at Marina Inn at Grand Dunes, Executive Sous Chef at Cork & Flame in Augusta, GA, and Executive Chef at Hootch and Banter in Fredrick, MD.
Chef Watts also ran a successful personal chef and mobile food business, Knife & A Kitchen. “I have come full circle on my culinary journey back to Horry County to be the Culinary Director of the prestigious Prime Independent Living community,” says Chef Watts.
The Love of Food
Chef Watts’ deep love for food began early by watching his grandmother create amazing meals with basic ingredients, and by learning the value of hard work and dedication to family from his father, a skilled cook in his own right. This passion continues to drive him today.
The Inspiration
Chef Watts is inspired by many chefs, from Michelin-starred world-famous to right-here local. “There is the co-owner of Noma, Rene Redzepi, who is a constant seeker of knowledge.” Chef Watts also admires “Grant Achatz of Alinea for using all the senses for the art of food. And Sean Brock for his love and preservation of southern cuisine.”
But Chef Watts wants you to know that it’s someone much closer to home who had a major impact on his life: Chef Geoff Blount of Levé Bakery in Conway, SC. “His love, knowledge and enthusiasm for everything pastry turned a skill I did not yet excel at into a constant pursuit of understanding and improvement. For that, I will be forever grateful.”
The Comfort
Although Chef Watts is highly skilled in many cuisines, his simple go-to comfort meal is cabbage and potatoes. “Sautéed cabbage, good sausage, cast iron potatoes, vinegar and hot sauce… there is nothing better.” And the dish he has the most fun preparing is tacos: “With so many options with meats, toppings and sauces, the sky’s the limit.
The Road Home… to Prime Carolina Coast
There is something special about a dedicated dining area, where residents can relax, socialize, and enjoy a wonderful meal. For Chef Watts, the ultimate goal is to make Prime Carolina Coast’s dining experience the pillar of this amazing community.
“My goal is when someone thinks about going out to eat, all they have to do is come downstairs because they feel the best place is right here.” He adds: “With Prime Carolina Coast’s beautiful grounds, its many activities and events, and bringing people together with good food, every day will be a new adventure.”
We couldn’t agree more. Contact us to learn about how we’re different at Prime Carolina Coast, from our dining options and social calendar to our resident-run programming and clubs.