Hi, I’m Ray Williams, the chef and founder of Palisky Hospitality. A proud Johnson & Wales alumni with a degree in Culinary Arts, I bring over 21 years of experience to the kitchen. My journey includes getting my first executive chef position at 23, working under James Beard semi-finalists and finalists in both the Northeast & the South, also developing two unique culinary concepts & managing a 3rd in the Durham Food Hall.
Meet the Chef
What’s the deal?
Palisky Hospitality is the umbrella company that houses The Pushcart & Local Mise. Named after founder Ray Williams’ wife, Cassie, and her family name, Palisky reflects the heart of the business, family. A small, hands-on operation, Palisky Hospitality is powered by Ray’s creativity in the kitchen and Cassie’s expertise behind the scenes. Together, they craft memorable dining experiences of every scale, from street-side hot dogs to intimate private dinners, and everything in between.
Hot Dogs are an All-American comfort food. We fully embrace this as we take some regional classics and thoughtfully re-invent them. Our mantra is, “Keep it fresh, keep it fun”! We use Bright Leaf hot dogs and Martin’s potato buns to hold’em. The Pushcart is currently operating as an “event only” operation. Book us for your next party or host us for a pop up!
The name Local Mise is a nod to the French culinary term “mise en place”, meaning “everything in its place.” Adding Local reflects our commitment to working with ingredients grown and raised close to home. From weekly farmers market visits to partnerships with purveyors sourcing throughout North Carolina, local always comes first. And when something isn’t local, it’s because it’s a product we truly believe in.
Local Mise does a little bit of everything from weekly meal drops, corporate lunches, private events, and fun pop-ups. We are rooted in thoughtful sourcing, solid technique, and food that feels good to eat.
