Our Team
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Sarah Baugher
Chef de Cuisine
Sarah’s experience spans kitchens over the East Coast, having gotten her start in Charleston, and spent the past five years leading kitchens in Pittsburgh, PA. As our CDC, she steers our kitchen team with passion, kindness and curiosity. Sarah loves to listen, tweak, adapt and organize – she knows where to find ideas in herself and others, and can make them come to life on a plate or in a team. Her cool head and positive attitude are a gift to our high energy kitchen!
A newlywed, Sarah shares her home with her wife, two cats, one dog, and six chickens. She loves to be out in nature, whether that’s a trail or in her garden. A Georgia native, she relocated to Raleigh from PA in search of more sun, and better peaches! -
Lindsay Ogden
Restaurant & Beverage Manager
Lindsay was instrumental in building what Ajja would be – from our steps of service to our eclectic beverage menu. She is a phenomenal bartender and certified wine professional, making her the perfect person to design our wine list and drive our cocktail program. She comes up with her best cocktail ideas while lying on the floor, or while listening to audiobooks. Lindsay has risen to the role of Restaurant & Beverage manager and remains a key player in shaping Ajja to be the best it can be.
At home, she likes to lounge with her dog Tina and tend to her many, many plants. She loves to bake, is a gifted painter (ever noticed the intricately decorated rocks that come with your Ajja check?), and likes to listen to fantasy books and podcasts. -
Caleb Mairson
Sous Chef
Originally from Maryland, Caleb migrated down to Raleigh and is obsessed with North Carolina’s produce and parks. He’s been cooking for 10 years and has been at Ajja since 2024. When he’s not at work, Caleb enjoys going on runs, all things Muppets, and spending time in his garden growing peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes!
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Bailey Main
Junior Sous Chef
Bailey’s culinary journey began at just 14 years old, and his passion for cooking has continued to grow ever since. After relocating to the Raleigh area from Banner Elk following Hurricane Helene, he brought with his a rich culinary perspective rooted in both Southern Appalachian traditions and the Lowcountry, inspired by his family’s ties to the mountains of North Carolina and the coast of South Carolina. Bailey’s dedication, creativity, and love for hospitality shine through every service. He’s also the best dressed cook in the state! When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll likely find Bailey mastering new yo-yo tricks or spending time with his beagle, Duncan.