A Chef, Speaker and Entrepreneur.
Highlights
Achievements & Experiences
Throughout his career, Chef Rock Harper has taken on a variety of roles, creating unforgettable experiences for clients, organizations, and audiences. From winning Hell’s Kitchen on FOX, hosted by world-renowned Chef Gordon Ramsay, to owning acclaimed restaurants, partnering with non-profits such as the James Beard Foundation, and delivering motivational speeches, his journey has been driven by a passion for food, culture, and inspiration. This page highlights some of his key achievements and experiences that define his path as a chef, speaker, and entrepreneur. Below, you’ll find a list of non-profits and notable organizations he’s worked with, showcasing the broad impact of his work.
Areas of
Expertise
Culinary Arts Event Hosting African American Cusine Cooking Classes
Team Building Media and TV Appearances Motivational Speaking
Achievements
Winning Hell’s Kitchen Season 3 on FOX
Chef Rock's victory on Season 3 of Hell’s Kitchen demonstrated his ability to thrive under high-pressure environments while showcasing exceptional culinary skills and leadership. Competing on a global stage under the mentorship of Gordon Ramsay, he proved his resilience, adaptability, and passion for delivering excellence. This accomplishment not only elevated his visibility but also established him as a trusted culinary expert capable of leading teams, executing high-stakes events, and bringing value to businesses seeking innovation, inspiration, and unmatched culinary talent.
Owner of Queen Mother's Kitchen and Hill Prince
Chef Rock owns Queen Mother’s Kitchen in National Landing, serving premium fried chicken and Southern fare in a community-driven space. Hill Prince, his restaurant and bar in Washington, DC, also serves as a podcast studio, blending culinary creativity with media innovation. Both ventures showcase Chef Rock’s commitment to delivering exceptional food and memorable experiences, while fostering cultural connection and leadership in the culinary world.
James Beard Foundation
Boot Camp for Policy and Change
Chef Rock participated in the James Beard Foundation's Boot Camp for Policy and Change, a program designed to empower chefs as advocates for a better food system. Through the Boot Camp, Rock gained training in policy, media, and sustainability issues, joining other chefs in addressing challenges like food equity and public health. This initiative aims to equip culinary leaders to influence policy change and promote healthier, more sustainable food practices.
You can learn more about the Boot Camp here.
Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic Nomination
James Beard Foundation
Chef Rock’s dedication to culinary excellence earned him a nomination for this award from the James Beard Foundation. This recognition highlights his impact on the culinary scene and his commitment to elevating food culture in the region. The nomination reflects his talent, leadership, and the innovative dishes he has brought to the Mid-Atlantic, further cementing his role as a culinary leader and influencer.
Experiences
Corporate and Team-Building Cooking Experiences
Chef Rock Harper has collaborated with companies like Google, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Amgen, Indiana University, and Ebony Magazine to host corporate and team-building cooking experiences. These sessions combine his culinary skills with leadership, creating engaging, hands-on events that foster teamwork and creativity through cooking.
Motivational Speaker and Media Personality
Chef Rock Harper has made numerous high-profile media appearances, including The Sherri Show, Gordon Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back, The Today Show, and Hell’s Kitchen, where he continues to be a familiar face. Additionally, he’s shared his culinary insights and motivational stories on platforms like The Karen Hunter Show. Through these engagements, Rock blends his passion for food and leadership, captivating audiences and inspiring change through storytelling and expertise.
Philanthropy
&
Community Work
Chef Rock has been deeply involved in philanthropy and community work throughout his career, using his culinary expertise to give back and advocate for food equity. He has served on the Board of Directors for DC Central Kitchen, where he helped combat hunger while supporting culinary job training programs for marginalized individuals. Additionally, Chef Rock has played a key role in DC Greens, advancing food justice and sustainable food systems in Washington, DC. His global contributions include serving as a board member with the Global Food and Drink Initiative, promoting food equity and raising awareness about important food-related issues worldwide. Through these initiatives, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to creating positive social change in and beyond the culinary world.