Follow Chef Ben Welch’s path from childhood memories of Southern hospitality to becoming a 2022 James Beard Awards semifinalist, as he brings a modern twist to traditional Southern cuisine in St. Louis with the launch of Lucy Quinn and Little Lucy restaurants.
Image by H2 PR
From the desk of:
BEN WELCH
Chef/Owner, Lucy Quinn + Little Lucy
Inspired by modern influences, Ben Welch is pushing the boundaries of traditional Southern cuisine and is preparing to open his first solo venture with the dual concept launch of Lucy Quinn and Little Lucy restaurants in St. Louis, Missouri.
His culinary journey began at a young age, rooted in Mississippi family traditions and childhood memories of barbecue culture. His appreciation for Southern hospitality laid the groundwork for a celebrated career, including his nomination as a 2022 James Beard Awards semifinalist for Best Chef: Midwest.
Early on, Welch pursued formal education at Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, South Carolina, and honed his skills in prestigious kitchens including Emeril Lagasse’s NOLA in New Orleans. In 2016, he partnered with his father to open Big Baby Q smokehouse, where he perfected his St. Louis-style barbecue to critical acclaim as Missouri’s ‘Best BBQ’ by Food & Wine magazine. He later went on to open restaurants including The Midwestern Meat and Drink and led the kitchens at Six Mile Bridge Beer and former Botanica, where he received his first JBF Awards nomination.
During that time, Welch piloted Lucy Quinn as a series of Southern-style pop-ups in homage to his maternal grandmother. He deepened his connection to Southern foodways and spent time traveling through Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, and North Carolina. These experiences, coupled with his professional accolades, fueled his confidence to reintroduce his signature Southern dishes on a larger scale.
Chef Welch is a prominent advocate for Black chefs and the broader representation of Black culinary talent. His involvement with organizations like the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation, Bayhaven Food & Wine Festival, and TrueSouth Southern food series highlights his commitment to mentorship and creating opportunities for underrepresented chefs. Welch also connects food with social causes, demonstrating the power of culinary art to effect change and foster a legacy of support for future chefs.
Lucy Quinn & Little Lucy are located at 4156-4158 Manchester Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110. You can follow Chef Ben Welch and the restaurants at@lucyquinnstl@littlelucystl
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