Chef Joe Cravens is a native of Memphis, TN. His culinary career began during high school at Lucchesi’s Ravioli and Pasta Company—voted as one of USA Today’s 10 Best Italian restaurants. During college,
Joe worked for James Beard award-winning chef, Vishwesh Bhatt at Snackbar in Oxford, MS. Chef Bhatt is world renowned for his ability to apply western Indian culinary techniques to Southern U.S. cuisine. Joe’s time at Snackbar with Chef Bhatt provided him with the tools and techniques to think creatively and apply multicultural techniques to Southern fare.

After college, Joe moved to Atlanta, GA, to work for James Beard award-winning Chef Steven Satterfield and Michelin award-winning General Manager Neal McCarthy at Miller Union. Chef Satterfield is nationally recognized for his efforts to cook organically by reacting to the ever-changing seasons. Miller Union embodies an authentic approach to farmstead-inspired cooking in which ingredients drive the menu. Joe’s experience at Miller Union continuously inspires him to apply the sources of his environment by celebrating the use of fresh produce.

In 2017, Joe moved to Jackson, MS, and began working for James Beard semi-finalist, award-winning chef Derek Emerson at Parlor Market. Joe was quickly promoted to Executive Chef where he utilized his past experience to create innovative tasting menus. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Joe went on to work for Chef Emerson at Walker’s Drive In where he worked as a Sous Chef alongside Michael Greenhill.

Joe began then transitioned to US Foods as a Territory Manager in 2023 where he gained knowledge and insight into food sales and restaurant business operations. Joe was able to play an integral part of menu planning and development at 40 restaurants across his territory. In 2024, Joe was named Rookie of the Year of all Territory Managers within the Southeastern Region. The award honored Joe’s dedication and attentiveness to the detail he provided to all of his restaurant accounts to ensure they experience fruitive prosperity.

Chef Joe took over ownership of Walker’s Drive In on July 1, 2025, after working with Chef Emerson for several months to ensure a smooth takeover of one of our areas most beloved iconic restaurants. Chef Joe is now proud to carry on the rich history and tradition of Walker’s Drive In. Chef Joe and his wife Kelsey have two children—Jack and Mari Frances.