USCB Hospitality Alum Othel Plowden Cooks for Golden Globe Nominated Film

Chef Othel Plowden, a 2012 graduate of the University of South Carolina Beaufort, has made a name for himself in the culinary world. Plowden earned his bachelor's degree in hospitality management from USCB and has gone on to make waves in the movie industry.

His culinary skills are on full display in the 2022 hit film, "The Menu." During the production of this foodie-centric movie, Plowden was tasked with creating a one-of-a-kind meal for the film’s group of high-end diners. Plowden's skills have been praised by critics and audiences, with some saying that his fabulous classic burger and other intricate, scrumptious meals steal the show. He worked behind the scenes plating, creating and styling dishes.

Plowden's passion for cooking and food styling was evident during his time at USCB.

“I began working with food and cooking at an early age; my love for that has remained a constant allowing me to understand the importance of diversity, integrity, and dedication to learning,” Plowden said. “My career has been a dynamic roller coaster: from being a dishwasher and clearing tables to managing a team to excute high-end weddings and other events. The foundation of my success has been continual learning with passion and accepting that you can learn from anyone at any time.”

Dr. Sean Barth, Professor and Internship Coordinator of Hospitality Management, mentored and encouraged Plowden during his time as a Sand Shark. He also called on his professional network to introduce Plowden to the team making The Menu.

”Othel was always a diligent student who understood that in order to succeed, you have to gain experience and have a well-rounded educational background,” Barth said. “Othel took every advantage working across the country, from San Francisco to the Lowcountry, gaining experience at every stop.”

At USCB , Plowden was president of the Club Managers student organization and one of the founding members of USCB’s Club Basketball. He also helped raise money for hospitality students to attend a regional conference.

Plowden was born in Connecticut and grew up in Charleston, SC. He attended the Culinary Institute of Charleston and then came to USCB, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. After graduation, he put his hospitality knowledge to use and worked as a manager for several different private and country clubs within Lowcountry.

“All of those positions exposed me to aspects of fine dining and guest/customer relations on a daily basis,” Plowden says, “which is how I have been able to build great rapport with actors while working with or serving some Hollywood’s most notable stars over these past few years.”

During the pandemic, Plowden launched his own business as a personal chef and soon became sought-after by the film industry. Now living in Charlotte, Plowden is seeing success with his business “Cookin’ Spoon,” which specializes in preparing healthier Southern and Gullah Geechee-inspired food for private events. His company also provides consulting services throughout the culinary industry.

Chef Plowden's success is an inspiration to USCB’s hospitality students, showing them what is possible with hard work and determination. The university is proud to call him a Sand Shark and can't wait to see what he will achieve next.

Learn more about USCB’s Hospitality major at uscb.edu/hospitality