Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Elam.
Hi Jonathan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I come from a Big family and Food was always the thing that brought and kept us together. I grew up in Augusta Georgia, moved to Atlanta when I was 18 attending Morris Brown College first. Started cooking as a hobby and also for work. I knew I was on to something as I was good at it, I went on to finish at Jackson State University in Jackson, MS where I studied Music but cooking was always the passion. A professor of mine nudged me to make a decision for my life. So I went into cooking Full time and studied under some great chefs and culinarians from MS, VT, New Orleans and my roots Georgia plays a big part in my influences. I had been an Executive Chef for quite some time plus side catering. I decided it was time to branch out on my own especially during the pandemic. Justatace Food and Beverage was born.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the main obstacles that no one talks about is changing the mindset. Going from a steady paycheck to not knowing how you may pay for things is scary. It has been interesting and definitely a constant learning experience. Some months are better than others but you have to be vigilant and keep pushing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a Chef who specializes in Southern cuisine with other influences such as Creole, Caribbean. I specialize in making you feel the food. I reach people through food communication, everything is made with love pure and simple. I am most proud of breaking through my fears and failures and use them as an example to keep moving and help others. What sets me apart is my discernment, I’ve been through a lot in life but I like to sit back and listen to people. You will always find what you are looking for if you just listen sometimes.
How do you think about luck?
No luck. This is all in God’s plan, I was taught at an early age to keep God first in all things to see it through whether it good or bad, a lesson is always taught through experience.
Contact Info:
- Email: Justatacefoodandbeverage@gmail.com
- Website: www.justatace.com
- Instagram: Jaylonthachef
- Facebook: Jaylonthachef
- Youtube: Cooking and talking ish.
Image Credits
Illogic projects by Brian Easley
