Chef Paul Smith’s earliest memories are of standing on a milk crate to be tall enough to stir sauces for his grandfather at the Glen Ferris Inn. Now, the Kanawha County restaurateur brings a long history of passion and innovation to the state’s culinary scene. From the Pitch Sports Bar and Grill, to Barkadas, to 1010 Bridge, and even the new acquisition of Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream, Chef Paul approaches each new venture with an Appalachian twist. “The diversity of Appalachia is what makes it great. From the ingredients to the people, to the heritage - everyone that came to this region, I try to draw from for inspiration, whether it be produce or protein, and utilize what we have. I try to do as little to it as possible, and let the food speak for itself.” Innovators and Entrepreneurs is a bi-weekly segment of the daily304 that features discussions and wisdom from West Virginians who have built their companies and launched new ideas here in the Mountain State.