James Pearce

Executive Chef

James Pearce is the Executive Chef of The Kingstide, where he oversees both the restaurant and The DIME. A longtime member of the Indigo Road Hospitality family, James worked his way up through kitchens at O-Ku and Maya before stepping into leadership at The Kingstide. He thrives on being a mentor and resource for his team, creating an environment where growth and collaboration are at the forefront.

His cooking philosophy centers on balance—salt, acid, fat, and heat—paired with a deep commitment to sourcing locally. James builds menus around what’s fresh and available from Charleston’s farmers and fishermen, ensuring each dish highlights the best of the region. He especially enjoys butchering fish and creating dishes that celebrate the Lowcountry’s coastal bounty, always striving for refinement and letting functional garnishes and thoughtful pairings complete the plate.