About Chef Nathan

Nathan Sowers' passion for food began in Chicago, where growing up among the city's diverse restaurants and neighborhood pizzerias sparked a lifelong love of cooking. Inspired by culinary icons Jacques Pépin and Julia Child, he immersed himself in the art of food, building his own culinary library and sharing that passion with his family long before it became his profession.

In 2002, Nathan took a leap of faith, leaving a successful career to pursue his dream in the kitchen. That journey led him to Chef Michel Tersiguel and Chef Petr Hoffman, who introduced him to the traditions and techniques of classic European cuisine. Nathan further refined his craft through professional studies at L'Académie de Cuisine and advanced artisan bread training with Certified Master Baker Jeffrey Hamelman at the King Arthur Baking School. 

Nathan's passion for baking inspired him to establish the first bread bakery at Tersiguel's French Country Restaurant, where his handcrafted country loaves and baguettes became a signature part of the dining experience. His artisan breads were soon enjoyed throughout the community, laying the foundation for what would become his own culinary philosophy—simple ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, and shared around the table.

In 2012, Nathan founded River House Pizza Co., bringing handcrafted wood-fired pizza to Historic Ellicott City. Through two devastating floods, a battle with cancer, and years of perseverance, he remained committed to the community he loved. River House expanded in 2017 with a second location on Route 40.

In 2019, Nathan was presented with an opportunity to return to Historic Ellicott City through the restoration and renovation of the historic Mt. Ida property. After years of thoughtful preservation and renewal, The Inn at Mt. Ida opened its doors in 2023 as a boutique bed and breakfast and community gathering place for celebrations, meetings, and special events. During that time, Nathan's friendship with Chef Michel Tersiguel continued to flourish as the two shared stories, techniques, and a mutual appreciation for French and Italian culinary traditions.

Then, in April 2025, Chef Michel extended an extraordinary invitation—to carry forward the legacy of his iconic Main Street restaurant. After more than thirty years of welcoming guests to his family's beloved establishment, he offered to pass the family’s iconic building baton to Nathan, challenging him to bring his culinary journey full circle.

And River House on Main was born.
 
After a thoughtful renovation and reimagination, River House on Main is ready for her next culinary journey where Nathan started more than two decades ago. Blending signature pizzas, artisan breads, and elevated French and Italian-inspired bistro cuisine, the restaurant will honor the traditions of the past while embracing a fresh vision for the future.

More than a restaurant, River House on Main is a celebration of craftsmanship, hospitality, community, and the enduring belief that great food has the power to bring people together.