Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Matthews.
Michael, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I moved to Atlanta at 18 to go to undergrad at Morehouse College eventually graduating in 2013 with a Bachelors in Economics. Upon graduation I was at a crossroad as to where I wanted my life to go so I decided that I would like to follow my passion and become a Chef. This was the most rewarding decision I have ever made in my life. I enrolled into the Art Institute of Atlanta and excelled which led to numerous jobs in the Hospitality field. I eventually started my own business and have catered many events & cooked for some very influential figures in Atlanta including athletes,& celebrities. I am currently in the process of trying to open my own establishment.
Has it been a smooth road?
Absolutely not, Whenever you follow a passion or dream there will always be adversity. I paid for my Culinary diploma out of my own pocket. I worked 2 jobs and catered on the side. I wanted the best for myself so I had to put all my energy into that. Also during this process I lost close family members and friends so the battle had been uphill.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
The proudest moment in my career was when I graduated from Art Institute of Atlanta and my family accepted that I have found my passion and will support me. This was the proudest moment because I aspired to do many other things and always felt like I would be chastised if I would fail. I am proud that I stuck to something I believed in.
Tell us more about the struggles you’ve faced along the way.
Struggle is inevitable but the triumph is what matters most. I struggles getting through culinary school working two jobs and trying to get a brand in order was a lot. I cried some nights didn’t sleep many nights but I look forward to the future and where my skills & passion will take me.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I absolutely feel this city is a melting pot for new and upcoming chefs or entrepreneurs. Thousands of people have been relocating here for a new start. I think that invites the creative Chef such as myself to dig deep and find the inspiration to provide what the people want
Contact Info:
- Phone: 2672319959
- Email: 5115restaurantgroup@gmail.com
- Instagram: mikey_boska
Corina
October 30, 2016 at 5:07 pm
so proud of you!!!! just do it!!! #andersonclan
Clifton Herold
October 30, 2016 at 5:45 pm
Micheal has taught me a lot my name is Clifton Herold and I worked with him at the Sheraton Atlanta hotel and he is by far one of the most knowledgeable chef in our age group. Chef Mike has the potential of becoming one of the best chefs out of Atlanta and I’m honored to have learned from him…..on and block
Trina
November 1, 2016 at 11:57 am
So proud of you and the hard work.I know you ran into so walls but you made it through with hard work and dedication. I am happy for you and your mother for she was cheering for you the hardest.
Loretta Thomas
November 1, 2016 at 12:06 pm
I am very proud of you Mike how you sucessly persevered. I pray that everything that you want in life comes your way congratulations.
Loretta
November 1, 2016 at 12:29 pm
Godmother so proud of you, continue to keep rocking on….sky’s the limit. God continue to keep blessing him. Big Congratulations, love you. Also, congratulations to my sister, his mother Corina for doing a awesome, great job raising Mike. Love u both.
Kamari Rainge
November 1, 2016 at 12:35 pm
This chef is AWESOME! I’ve haf a few of his plates and desserts and they are phenomenal! Keep up the great work. Your gift has made room for you!
Kareemah H
November 1, 2016 at 1:12 pm
At a young age Chef Michael was surrounded by family, church family and friends who cooked together on a regular basis. I’m excited to see that the passion has continued to the next generation and that Chef Michael is taking it to another level. May you be Blessed with the desires of your heart. Atlanta you have received a true gentleman and an awesome chef!!
Pastor Pope
November 1, 2016 at 1:49 pm
Great Article and Amazing Chef!
Continue to do great work; the doors of opportunity will continue to open for you because of your commitment to excellence.
Blessings,
Pastor Pope
Jen T
November 1, 2016 at 1:58 pm
Wow!!! This is a chef with soul in his food!!! Go Mike!
Lynda
November 1, 2016 at 3:13 pm
Way to go Michael! You are an inspiration!!
Jameela Bynum
November 1, 2016 at 3:23 pm
Michael, oh my great goodness!! I could not be more proud if I have birth to you. You have always been amazing in my eyes, but now you are leaving your amazing mark on the world. God bless you, my son, for “he hath done GREAT things”. Luke 1:49
Jameela Bynum
November 1, 2016 at 3:26 pm
I could not be more proud if I actually gave birth to you
Uncle Darrell
November 1, 2016 at 6:06 pm
Uh….Chef, how about pastries ?
Man, you said it. Dreams are struggles but so sweet when you matriculate each level. Hint on the sweet part. Proud of you ! Still your Philly connection.
Anthony Woodfolk Jr.
November 1, 2016 at 6:36 pm
I hold my credibility as a foodie in high regard & I challenge any food critic to disagree with me on the level of excellence & creativity that goes into Chef Matthew’s work. Taste it for yourselves, there’s love in every bite. In the future this Chef will be in the Yelp, ZAGAT & MICHELIN ratings. I have no doubt. A true culinary professional is budding in ATL, by way of PHI.
Shandelle St. John
November 1, 2016 at 8:42 pm
Keep on reaching! The sky is the limit when you find your passion. Please keep creating tasty food art that keep our pallets wanting more. Proud of you on your accomplishments thus far!
Lisa B.
November 2, 2016 at 2:42 am
Go Chef Michael! May your passion and hard work lead to success beyond what you would ever think or hope for.
Excited for you!
November 2, 2016 at 3:10 pm
MEALS ARE OFF THE CHAIN
Vic
November 2, 2016 at 5:01 pm
Congrats Michael! Keep doing great things! Dreams come true!
Yelena Anatolenko
November 2, 2016 at 6:05 pm
Michael,
I am so proud of you. Wish you the best. You deserve it.
You have the best mom of the world.
Lynnia Burch
November 11, 2016 at 6:15 am
Very nicely worded and so inspiring. You’re amazing! Keep striving to be the greatest there is. I can’t wait to see you on the food network next. 😉