Mike Parhm serves as Executive Chef of The Optimist in Nashville, where his cuisine celebrates the intersection of Gulf seafood, Southern ingredients, and wood-fire cooking. Known for his dedication to sustainable seafood, whole fish butchery, and mentorship in the kitchen, Mike believes the best dishes come from restraint, impeccable ingredients, and respect for the people who produce them. He is honored to represent Tennessee at the 2026 Great American Seafood Cook-Off.