Today we’d like to introduce you to Maya Holloway.
Maya, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve been cooking for about 20 years! Ever since I could remember, my mother and I have been in the kitchen, creating crazy recipes together! Believe it or not, my first restaurant gig was washing dishes at Chipotle while attending The Art Institute of Atlanta. Soon after realizing that I was in love with the fast-paced lifestyle of Food & Hospitality, I became dedicated to being the best line cook at every restaurant I worked. Years later, I landed a Sous Chef position that shortly promoted me to Executive Chef. Through my hard work and creativity, I earned awards for Open Table’s “Best Date Night Restaurant 2018-2019” & “Alpharetta’s Best Up & Coming.”
After making my mark on the food scene in Alpharetta, I decided that I wanted a new challenge and tried my hand for corporate cooking. My first transition into this culinary environment was a Sous Chef position for Fox Restaurant Concepts at Flowerchild. With all my training, passion and unique recipes, I decided to use Instagram to spread my love for food to the world. The Apartment Chef is not just a lifestyle. It’s a Black Business cultivated by a black woman. I want to show the world that not only do women run the kitchen but that women can own the kitchen as well!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Definitely a bumpy road! Simply put, being a woman of color and a member of the LGBTQ+ community is not always easy. My identity alone has played a part in me being denied some deserved handshakes or opportunities for solid positions.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into The Apartment Chef story. Tell us more about the business.
I am the founder and creator behind The Apartment Chef & Apartment 325 brand. When I think of how to answer the question about what I do, it’s very simple. My goal is for people to look at their phones and want to lick the screen because the food looks that freaking good. My company’s mission is to send people on a journey through their tastebuds, no matter their dietary restrictions, fitness goals, or budget. Although I welcome all styles, I specialize in fusion cuisine, which is all about finding the sweet spot for ingredients to marry one another. This has given me the pleasure of being deemed the Young Culinary Jedi of Atlanta. My use of unique plating techniques and knowledge of various cultural, culinary influences sets me apart from the rest. From meal preps to private dinners, my food will always stand out.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t believe in luck, I believe in purpose!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 4705534349
- Email: TheApt325Chef@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaptchef/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/TheAptChef/
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