At the Culinary Health Institute (CHI) — a collaboration between 4Roots, AdventHealth, Florida Blue, and Gordon Food Service — food is more than nourishment. It’s a tool for prevention, a way to bring communities together, and a catalyst for better health. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Chef Hari Pulapaka, Ph.D., CEC, WCMC, AAC as Director of Culinary Education.
Chef Hari is no ordinary chef. He’s a four-time James Beard Foundation Best Chef semifinalist, a celebrated champion of globally inspired, plant-forward cuisine, and a tenured professor of mathematics at Stetson University. Over the past two decades, he has blended the precision of science with the creativity of the culinary arts — earning national acclaim for his sustainability-driven approach to cooking.
As co-founder and executive chef of the award-winning Cress Restaurant (2008–2019) in DeLand, Florida, Chef Hari developed a reputation for globally influenced menus rooted in local sourcing and social responsibility. Today, he continues to inspire food lovers through The Global Cooking School and his sold-out Omakase Dinners, while also serving as an educator, author, and thought leader.
Chef Hari’s work goes beyond the plate. He holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics, is a Certified Executive Chef (CEC) through the American Culinary Federation, and is deeply committed to advancing culinary literacy, equity, and sustainability. His latest book, The Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based Cookbook (Hatherleigh Press/Penguin Random House, 2024), co-authored with his wife Dr. Jenneffer Pulapaka, blends flavor-forward recipes with evidence-based health insights. His next cookbook is already underway and slated for release in 2026.
“Chef Hari brings a rare combination of culinary mastery, academic rigor, and a deep commitment to sustainability and health,” says Jay Groves, Executive Director of the Culinary Health Institute. “His leadership will help CHI create transformative experiences — from hands-on cooking classes to innovative food-as-medicine programs — that empower people to take control of their health and rediscover the joy of food.”
In his new role, Chef Hari will lead culinary health classes alongside a medical professional at the 4Roots Farm Campus and the Center for Health & Wellbeing — guiding participants through hands-on experiences that connect farm, kitchen, and health. These programs are designed to help people learn to cook with confidence, discover the joy of seasonal eating, and understand how every meal can support long-term wellness.
Join Chef Hari this fall for an unforgettable lineup of events and classes that bring the mission of CHI to life.
Explore the full event calendar and register here:
🔗 4rootsfarm.org/events