American Trails Magazine Feature

Featured in American Trails Magazine: A Personal Highlight

I’m so excited to share some big news — I was recently featured in American Trails Magazine! For those who aren’t familiar, this is an international publication based in Sweden that shines a light on the unique people, places, and flavors that make up communities across the United States. To be included among their stories is such an honor, especially since Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand mean so much to me.

Back in April 2024, I was visited by writer and photographer Cajsa Landin, to experience Johnny D’s and The Tasting Room on 9th. Over the summer, the article, Dazed and Content, finally made it to light in a beautiful feature in American Trails Magazine. Cajsa has a way of capturing energy and personality through her writing that made me feel truly seen, not just as a chef but as someone who grew up in this industry and poured my heart into building Johnny D’s and now The Tasting Room on 9th. I can truly say it was worth the wait.

Here are a few lines that really touched me:

Photo Credit: Cajsa Landin

“Chef Jamie Daskalis enters a room like a whirlwind. It’s a stark contrast to the slow, peaceful pace of the rest of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina… She somehow manages to answer my questions at the same time as picking up the phone, making a note to the serving staff, and greeting new customers by the door.” -Dazed and Content

And of course, this line meant a lot as well.

“We have a cult following,” she says, and it’s easy to see why. With her infectious energy, focus on really good, local food, and welcoming environment, the restaurants attract both locals and tourists, which can be a tricky feat.” - Dazed and Content

Cajsa also joined me for the opening of The Tasting Room on 9th in Myrtle Beach’s Arts and Innovation District, describing the night in such a fun and memorable way. That evening was truly special, and I’m so grateful she captured it.

“At this point, we’re ready to follow Chef Jamie anywhere she points, so when she tells us tonight is the grand opening of her new wine bar downtown… we immediately change our plans so we can go.” - Dazed and Content

The feature didn’t stop with me — it highlighted the incredible Grand Strand culinary community. Cajsa spent time with Chef Adam Kirby of 217 Bistro on Pawley’s Island, who shared his philosophy as a farmer-chef. She also visited Angela’s Fresh Market, famous for hot boiled peanuts and local favorites like pimento cheese and honey. It was wonderful to see the broader food culture of South Carolina represented so vibrantly.

Later in the article, Cajsa and I crossed paths again at Euphoria, the food and wine festival in Greenville, where I had the honor of serving as a former South Carolina Chef Ambassador. That moment reminded me how much food can bring people together — from a small breakfast table to a festival stadium.

If you’d like to read the full article (and I hope you do!), here’s the link:

Dazed and Content Article.

Download • 1.28MB

Thank You American Trails Magazine

A huge thank you to American Trails Magazine for sharing the story of the Grand Strand on an international stage, and to Cajsa Landin for visiting in April, capturing my story, and shining a light on the community of chefs and makers that make South Carolina so special.