James Doss

Photo Credit: Sarah Doss

NC Catch Chef Ambassador James Doss s is a chef, spearfisherman, oyster farmer, and owner of Rx Chicken & Oysters.

Originally from Goldsboro, NC,  James moved to Wilmington in 1996 to attend UNCW. He began working in restaurants and spent the next 16 years honing his craft and working under some of the best chefs in Wilmington and Charleston, including two years under Sean Brock at Husk.

In 2012, he opened Rx in the historic Hall's Drugstore building, the heart of the Castle Arts District, in Wilmington. For years, Rx operated with a menu that changed daily, working in partnership with the area's local farmers and fishermen through the changing seasons.

James and his wife Sarah rebranded the restaurant in 2022 to sharpen their focus on local seafood and develop their seafood operation. The pair started farming their own oysters, called Lucy Beas (named for their two dogs), in Topsail and Stump Sounds.

They also focus on sustainable fishing and spearfishing for the restaurant, and spear and serve the invasive yet delicious lionfish. In addition to their sea-to-table approach, James and his team serve sustainably farmed fried chicken, pork, beef, and local vegetables all highlighted in a seasonal Southern coastal menu.

Follow Chef Doss @RxChickenandOysters and Rx Chicken and Oysters