about DAVID

Trust Fall is excited to introduce our next chef and Maryville native, David Rule. Chef Rule found his passion for hospitality early on, working in a small family-owned restaurant at the age of 15, and the restaurant scene quickly made a tremendous impact on his future. With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, David has honed his skills alongside some of the top hospitality leaders in region, including stints with Aubrey’s Restaurant Group, Dancing Bear, Lodge, and Blackberry Farm. Through these experiences, David has developed a unique style that is as calm, confident, and relaxed as his demeanor.

As Chef and Proprietor of The Walnut Kitchen in Maryville, David’s vision is ingrained in the level of hospitality and cuisine that is provided. Most recently, David is currently working on an elegant new concept to be located in the historic General Building at the corner of Church and Market in Downtown Knoxville.

We’re also excited to have Maja Roy of Wine Forte at the helm for beverage pairings. Maja’s wine career began with great passion for artisanal grape growing and winemaking, which led her to move to Knoxville, earning a Master’s degree in Wine Geography at University of Tennessee. Her most recent work took place in her home country of Slovenia where she worked as a sommelier and wine consultant at Hiša Franko—one of The 50 Best Restaurants in the World in cooperation with chef Ana Roš who was awarded The World’s Best Female Chef for 2017.

Maja is currently representing wine distribution company 100% Italiano in East Tennessee and working on diversifying this market with high quality wine, produced at small, family-owned wineries around the world.