Award-winning chef and restaurateur Mashama Bailey has been named to the prestigious TIME100 list of the Most Influential People of 2026.
The recognition marks a major milestone in a career defined by culinary excellence, cultural storytelling, and global impact.
Bailey was recognized in the Innovators category of the 23rd annual TIME100 list, released Wednesday, placing her among a select group of global figures shaping the future across industries.
A Defining Voice in Modern American Cuisine
Bailey is best known as the executive chef and co-founder of The Grey, a critically acclaimed restaurant located in Savannah’s Historic District. Since opening, The Grey has earned national and international praise for its creative reinterpretation of Southern cuisine, blending history, culture, and fine dining into a distinctive culinary experience.
She also co-founded the broader Grey Spaces brand alongside business partner Johno Morisano, expanding their vision beyond a single restaurant into a growing hospitality enterprise.
Bailey’s influence extends far beyond the kitchen. With two prestigious James Beard Awards to her name, she has become one of the most respected figures in the culinary world, known not only for her technique but also for her ability to tell deeply rooted American stories through food.
Breaking Barriers and Building Legacy
In 2019, Bailey made history as the first African American chef to be featured on Chef’s Table, the globally acclaimed Netflix series that highlights the world’s most innovative chefs. Her appearance introduced millions to her philosophy of cooking—one that honors heritage while pushing creative boundaries.
Her continued recognition, including this latest TIME100 honor, underscores her role as a trailblazer in an industry where diversity at the highest levels has historically been limited.
Recognition from National Leaders
Bailey’s TIME100 profile was written by Kamala Harris, who met the chef during a campaign visit to Savannah. The tribute highlights Bailey’s cultural influence and leadership, further cementing her reputation as a figure whose impact transcends cuisine.
Reacting to the honor, Bailey expressed gratitude and humility.
“There are not many words that can express how I feel about this incredible honor. First, I want to say thank you to Time Magazine, I am truly humbled,” she said. “Thanks to my business partner… along with our team, whose drive towards excellence never waivers.”
Morisano echoed that sentiment, stressing Bailey’s leadership style and influence.
“Mashama leads with humility, grace and dignity, and that is the true secret sauce to building cultural bridges far and wide,” he said.
Expanding a Global Culinary Footprint
Bailey’s influence continues to grow internationally.
In 2025, she and Morisano expanded their brand to Europe with the opening of L’Arret by The Grey in Paris—bringing their signature approach to storytelling through cuisine to a global audience.
This expansion reflects a broader ambition: to reinterpret and elevate American Southern food traditions on the world stage.
A Lasting Impact
From redefining Southern cuisine to mentoring the next generation of chefs, Bailey’s inclusion on the TIME100 list highlights a career built not just on accolades, but on meaningful cultural impact.
Her work continues to bridge history and innovation, proving that food can be both an art form and a powerful vehicle for storytelling, identity, and connection.
