William Dissen is the chef-owner of The Market Place in Asheville, along with Haymaker (Charlotte) and Billy D’s Fried Chicken. A two-time James Beard Award semifinalist—Outstanding Chef (2025) and Outstanding Restaurant (2024)—he’s also a two-time Green Chef of the Year (Fortune) and StarChefs Rising Star. Known for championing Appalachian farm-to-table and sustainable seafood, Dissen is a culinary diplomat with the American Chefs Corps and author of Thoughtful Cooking, inspiring mindful, ingredient-driven cuisine rooted in community.