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Led by Chef Kenyatta Ashford, Neutral Ground explores the connections between ancestral West African foodways and the diverse cultural influences that have shaped New Orleans cuisine. Our menu honors these traditions through thoughtfully prepared dishes, from African-inspired rice and bean preparations to New Orleans working-class staples like po'boys and yakamein.

Seasonally inspired, chef-driven specials highlight fresh ingredients, local farms, and creative interpretations of familiar flavors. At Neutral Ground, every dish tells a story of heritage, cultural exchange, and the traditions that continue to shape the way we eat today.

Yakamein is quintessential to New Orleans’ food culture. These foods are emblematic to any New Orleans native. You can often get a bowl of “Yak” after a second line from Ms. Linda Green or at your favorite local spot.

Hours of Operation

Neutral Ground will reopen at 801 Dodds Avenue in Fall 2026
EMAIL: Neutralgroundchatt@gmail.com

CONTACT
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THE CHEF

    M E E T    

The Chef

Chef Kenyatta Ashford studied at the renowned Culinary Institute of America in New York. Before returning to Chattanooga, he gained experience and inspiration while working in New Orleans, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. He is enthused about the expanding food scene in Chattanooga. He recently was awarded Jean-Louis Palladin Professional Work/Study Grant by the James Beard Foundation that he used to study cuisines of the African American diaspora and West Africa. Chef Ashford recently co-founded a new dinner series called "4 Courses and."  He has been featured in Travel Noire, New York Times, and The Chattanooga Times Free Press. 
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Why This Chef Looks To The Past
To Plan His Future

This Tennessee Chef Recently Launched A Concept  Celebrating The African Diaspora

Meet Kenyatta Ashford of Neutral Ground in Chattanooga

Kenyatta Ashford Nurtures Native Cuisine and Diverse Food Cultures

Neutral Ground Finds a Home

How This Black Tennessee Chef Is Exposing The Youth To Culinary Arts

'4 Courses and 4:44' dinner themed to music of Jay-Z

Kenyatta Ashford Updates Creole Cuisine as His New Restaurant Incubates at Proof 

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ
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MENU
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