Check Out Kenyatta Ashford’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenyatta Ashford.

Hi Kenyatta, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Neutral Ground is the vision of Chef Kenyatta Ashford, a former educator who discovered his passion for cooking while working in his wife’s family catering business. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, building experience in professional kitchens, winning Food Network’s Chopped, and receiving a James Beard Foundation scholarship that took him on the Roots to Glory culinary tour through West Africa, Chef Kenyatta developed a deeper understanding of the shared history between West African and Louisiana cuisine. Inspired by his New Orleans upbringing and West African heritage, he founded Neutral Ground; a restaurant built on the belief that exceptional food can bring people together. Since launching as a concept inside of the Proof Incubator on Juneteenth in 2020, Neutral Ground has been growing through events, catering, and collaborations, and is now preparing to open its first permanent home while continuing its mission of celebrating culture, history, and hospitality through Afro-Creole cuisine.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Opening Neutral Ground during the pandemic was quite a challenge as it was such a hostile time for restaurants. This was both a challenge and a growth opportunity. To come out of that time with a strong brand was a blessing but, trying to find our own place after ending our time at Proof Incubator and finding our own space (including acquiring funding) has been a challenging journey that has spanned almost 4 years. We looked at so many different places, and learned that every rejection is actually a redirection. It seems that the space that we have secured now was always meant to be because I started my culinary journey there in the early years.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At Neutral Ground, we specialize in Afro-Creole cuisine that explores the deep historical connection between West African and Louisiana food traditions. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted to honor the cultures, techniques, and stories that have shaped our culinary heritage while offering guests an elevated dining experience.

What we’re most proud of is creating food with purpose. Rather than simply recreating familiar recipes, Chef Kenyatta uses each menu item to tell a story, connecting guests to the history, migration, and traditions behind the flavors on the plate.

What sets Neutral Ground apart is our commitment to authenticity. Chef Kenyatta’s journey from educator to chef, Culinary Institute of America graduate, Chopped Champion, James Beard Foundation scholarship recipient has shaped a perspective that goes beyond cooking. Neutral Ground isn’t just about serving exceptional food; it’s about preserving culture, sparking conversation, and creating a place where people from every background can come together around a shared table.

How do you define success?
Honestly, that’s an evolving thing for me. For some people, the measurement of success can be static whether its status, fame, or financial goals. For me, it’s ultimately been about a journey of growth. When I started this journey I had, and still do have, high ambitions. I wanted to build a restaurant culture and reputation for fine cuisine. Real success is to achieve that status and to maintain it long-term. That’s my measure of success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.neutralgroundchatt.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neutralgroundchatt/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeutralGroundChatt
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@neutralgroundchatt
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/chefkenyattaashford/