Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Lamar. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Chambli Stuber – Owner/Executive Chef
Chambli Stuber is not just a chef but a culinary artist with an extraordinary knack for crafting flavors. Her culinary journey began as a 14-year-old dishwasher at The Purple Onion. Proving herself to be a culinary prodigy, she quickly climbed the ranks to become the head cook by the tender age of 17. After stepping away for a decade to broaden her horizons, Chambli returned triumphantly in 2015, armed with a Culinary Degree from AB-Tech. Her talents didn’t go unnoticed during her academic journey; she was a prominent member of the Hot Foods Team and clinched a gold medal at the national championship. A maven of seasonal flavors, Chambli is the creative force behind not just The Purple Onion’s menu but also The S.P.O.T.’s diverse offerings. With the aid of her dedicated staff, she curates seasonal dishes and cocktails that feature fresh, local ingredients, captivating the palates of Saluda residents and visitors alike. Her ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation has set new standards in the culinary scene, making her menus a subject of local acclaim.
In addition to her culinary feats, Chambli is also the curator of our thoughtfully crafted wine list. She puts in a considerable amount of effort to select wines that pair harmoniously with the food and reflect her commitment to sustainability and often organic wines that align with the ethos of her kitchens—showcasing the best in quality while minimizing environmental impact. For Chambli, cooking isn’t merely a job—it’s a calling. Driven by an insatiable zest for the restaurant industry and an unwavering commitment to excellence, she views her work as a labor of love. This devotion is rivaled by her love for her daughter, an endless source of inspiration and motivation. Away from the kitchen’s heat, Chambli cherishes her free time by traveling, reading, spending invaluable moments with her daughter, and fueling her inner superhero at the gym. In January 2020, moved by her enduring love for the Saluda community, Chambli and her business partner, Emily Lamar, took ownership of The Purple Onion. Together, they launched another culinary gem, The S.P.O.T., further elevating Saluda’s gastronomic landscape. Under their stewardship, both establishments have become the cornerstones of Saluda’s vibrant food scene, encapsulating the essence of community, flavor, and excellence.
Emily Lamar – Owner/Operations Manager
Emily Lamar embarked on her culinary journey as a budding dessert chef at the young age of 17. With her mother, Susan, as her culinary muse, Emily cultivated an early affection for baking and the culinary world at large. Over the years, her role evolved beyond the oven into the entrepreneurial sphere. Balancing her passion for food with her keen business acumen, she enrolled in accounting and business courses, even teaching herself the ins and outs of website development and technological implementation to streamline restaurant operations. In 2010, Emily and her family took a sabbatical from the restaurant scene, relocating to Asheville for some respite. But like a moth to a flame, she was drawn back to The Purple Onion in 2016, stepping into the role of Operations Manager. She returned to her cherished hometown of Saluda in 2019, and, fueled by her unyielding spirit, Emily and her business partner Chambli acquired The Purple Onion in January 2020. Defying all odds, they’ve successfully expanded their culinary empire by launching another endeavor, The S.P.O.T. Beyond her professional successes, Emily finds her greatest joy in her family, cherishing her moments as a grandmother. She credits her emotional anchor, her husband, Bill Perkins, as the steadying force in her whirlwind life. With a heart full of love for her native Saluda, NC, Emily’s other interests extend to crafting, attending geek conventions, traversing new locales, and reveling in the great outdoors on a sun-drenched day. Balancing many roles and duties, Emily views herself as a real-life Wonder Woman, adeptly shifting from one responsibility to another while keeping her eyes on her ultimate goals: nurturing her family and enriching her community. Far from being just a business aim, this commitment represents a sincere desire to give back to the Saluda community she holds dear. Faced with the labyrinthine challenges of the restaurant industry, Emily’s steadfast determination ensures that she does more than survive—she thrives, making a meaningful impact on her beloved hometown.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being at the helm of The Purple Onion feels like a natural progression for us. We were part of the team here, running the day-to-day operations until we bought the restaurant in January 2020. It’s been a journey that’s evolved seamlessly from managing to owning, but not without its share of surprises, especially with the onset of the pandemic. Navigating through those early days of COVID-19 was a challenge, but our familiarity with the restaurant and our incredible team made it all manageable. This strong foundation not only helped us keep The Purple Onion thriving during such uncertain times but also gave us the confidence to open The S.P.O.T. in 2022. We’re especially proud of being able to provide full benefits to our staff, who have been our backbone through this entire journey. It’s been a rollercoaster, but we were uniquely prepared for it. Every day, we’re reminded of how rewarding it is to be a part of Saluda’s vibrant culinary scene and to share our passion for food and community with our wonderful customers and team.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At The Purple Onion and The S.P.O.T., our work revolves around creating unforgettable dining experiences. We specialize in offering a unique blend of local flavors and global influences, ensuring every dish tells a story. Our menus are a testament to our commitment to freshness, quality, and creativity, featuring locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the bounty of Saluda and the surrounding areas. What we’re known for is not just our food but the warm, welcoming atmosphere we create. Our restaurants are more than just eateries; they are gathering places where people come to enjoy good food, great company, and a sense of community. We’re most proud of our team’s ability to deliver consistent, top-notch service and our commitment to the community. We’ve worked hard to create a workplace that values and supports our staff, and in turn, they go above and beyond to make our guests feel at home. What sets us apart is our deep connection to Saluda. As residents and active community members, we don’t just run restaurants; we’re part of the local fabric. This connection influences everything we do, from the events we host to the special touches we add to each guest’s experience. Our work is all about bringing people together, serving great food, and ensuring everyone who walks through our doors leaves with a smile and a plan to return. It’s this dedication to our craft, our team, and our community that sets us apart.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.purpleonionsaluda.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepurpleonionsaluda/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PurpleOnionSaluda/
