Born & raised on the south side of Chicago, though having traveled outside the state of Illinois very few times I’ve always felt there was something more waiting for me. A young man, 21 years of age, I enlisted in the United States Air Force - frail, inexperienced in the ways of the world, yet curious for more, I left the comforts of home. Always been a foodie at heart, though the term did not exist then, military life quickly exposed me to different people, cultures, and most importantly foods!

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Though my culinary roots are based in soul food/southern American-styled cuisine, I’ve always enjoyed the tastes, aromas & spices of various ethnic-based cuisines, Indian (South Asian),

Latin, East Asian, and a strong affinity for the Mediterranean region traveling while in the military brought about a broad spectrum of experiences that is now the basis for how I create on

the stove, on a grill or over an open fire, beautifully aromatic, full of flavor, eye-popping appeal incredibly memorable.