About

Meet Our Chef

Chef Deborah VanTrece

Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours is the vision of Chef Deborah VanTrece, an Atlanta culinary force known for pairing soulful Southern roots with a global perspective and a refined, modern edge. Every dish is grounded in tradition, elevated through technique, and finished with bold intention. Chef VanTrece's approach is shaped by a life built on hospitality, travel, and culture. With years spent exploring flavors across the world, she created Twisted Soul as a destination where comfort meets craft, where each plate tells a story and every pour feels like part of the moment.

Our beverage director

Kursten Berry is a leading force in Atlanta's cocktail scene, known for her distinctive voice, creative vision, and ability to transform cocktails into memorable experiences. A proud Atlanta native, she brings both authenticity and innovation to the city's ever-evolving food and beverage landscape. As Managing Partner and Beverage Director of VanTrece Hospitality Group, Kursten leads the beverage programs for Michelin-recommended Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours and the award-winning Oreatha's At The Point. Her work reflects a thoughtful balance of elevated technique, cultural influence, and storytelling—each cocktail designed to complement cuisine while standing confidently on its own.

In 2025, Kursten was recognized as a James Beard Award semifinalist in the inaugural category of Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service, solidifying her place among the industry's most respected talents. A graduate of Kennesaw State University with a degree in Business Management, she pairs creative intuition with strategic leadership. A self-taught bartender, Kursten draws inspiration from art, music, global travel, and human connection—shaped in part by her previous career as a professional model in cities including New York, Paris, Milan, and Cape Town. Since discovering her passion behind the bar in 2016, her work has been featured in USA Today, Essence, ReserveBar, Local Palette, Thirsty Magazine, and more.

Through every detail, Kursten continues to redefine Atlanta's hospitality experience, one cocktail at a time.

A Supper Club Spirit, Atlanta Energy

More than a meal, Twisted Soul is an experience designed to feel intimate, elevated, and unforgettable. From chef-driven menus to a cocktail program built to complement every course, our space invites guests to slow down, settle in, and savor the night—whether you're here for a celebration, a date night, or your next favorite dish. The atmosphere is deliberate: warm lighting, elevated service, and a sense that something special is always happening. It's the kind of place made for lingering conversations, memorable cocktails, and evenings that turn into traditions.

Interior bar with wooden chairs and warm lighting

Gourmet cheeseburger with pickles, tomato, and crispy fries

Soul Food with a Global Perspective

Twisted Soul is rooted in Southern heritage, but never limited by it. Chef VanTrece brings a distinctive "global soul" style to the menu—honoring the flavors people know and love while introducing unexpected touches inspired by travel, technique, and seasonal creativity. Every dish balances bold flavor with refined presentation, creating an experience that feels both familiar and new. It's soulful, expressive cooking—made for guests who appreciate tradition, craftsmanship, and a little edge.

Recognized, Celebrated, & Always Evolving

Chef Deborah VanTrece's work has earned national recognition, including being named a James Beard Award nominee and the acclaimed owner and creative force behind multiple Atlanta concepts. Her culinary journey has also been featured across major media platforms and television appearances—spotlighting the artistry, culture, and storytelling that define her approach. While accolades may follow, the focus remains the same: pushing the experience forward, honoring the roots, and delivering excellence on every plate and in every glass.