The Grayson's

Arthur Grayson, is a graduate of the renowned Culinary Institute of America. Upon graduation he was awarded one of two annual fellowships as a Sous-Chef in the prestigious Escoffier Room. Arthur has trained at the Fontainebleau Hilton in Miami Beach and was the Chef at the Sands Restaurant Beach Club in Key West Florida. Upon moving to New York City, he worked as the Restaurant Chef at the United Nations Plaza and as Executive Sous-Chef at the St. Moritz Sheraton. Over the last five years, he has opened three successful restaurants here in Durham. His wife, Elizabeth Grayson, a former Miss North Carolina and actively involved in the arts, assists him with bringing in the live entertainment offered for special events.

The Team

Ashlyn Smith - North Duke Crossings Bistro & Catering

Ashlyn Smith is a graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI, where she received her Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts. Prior to starting her culinary education she was the Grand Prize Winner of the 2002 National High School Recipe Contest. While at JWU, Chef Smith worked in the Culinary Events Department where she executed culinary and pastry events for the University for visiting lecturers such as Emeril Lagasse, Tyler Florence and Ming Tsai and corporate events for Nations Restaurant News, Rodney Strong Winery and Longhorn Steakhouse. Additionally she taught in the culinary education department, and served as chef for private dinners for the JWU President. Upon graduation she trained at the Alexander House Hotel in West Sussex, England, Casanova Restaurant in Carmel, CA and locally at Four Square Restaurant in Durham, NC. Also during this time she served as the Foundation Development Coordinator at the Professional Culinary Institute in San Jose, CA responsible for coordinating culinary scholarships for under-privileged students. Chef Ashlyn has a unique love and passion for the essence of food, especially local naturally grown, that is demonstrated through her cuisine. She promotes this attitude with her hands-on involvement with local farms and participation in area Farmer’s Markets.

Chef Rodney Lloyd - Museum Café & Catering

Chef Rodney Lloyd "Rod" graduated culinary school at Alamance Community College. Chef Lloyd has 20 years of experience in specialty restaurants including Steak and Ale, Bennigan's Grill and Tavern, Craw Daddy's Seafood, Pinehurst Country Club and Alamance Country Club to mention a few. He most recently served as Executive Chef at the Village Tavern Grill in Burlington. Chef Lloyd brings his southern experience with modern cooking and fine dining techniques.

Dorothy Elliott - Chapel Hill Road Café & Catering

Dorothy brings several years experience in the hospitality business to Grayson's Café. She has a high standard of excellence and determination for customer satisfaction.

North Duke Crossings Bistro & Catering - 919.477.5790

Museum Café & Catering - 919.220.5429 EXT 358

Fax - 919.220.1729

Chapel Hill Road Café & Catering - 919.403.9220