Today we’d like to introduce you to Starr Bell
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up in NYC, my mom and dad both worked two jobs, so family members and friends often pitched in to help raise me. My mom is Puerto Rican, my dad is African American, and during a tough time in my life, a Jamaican woman took me under her wing and has been there for me ever since. I watched my Abuela (Puerto Rican) and my Grams (a Southern belle) cook every day, preparing meals for our families. As I got older, I gained a bonus mom, “Princess D,” a Jamaican who also lived in the kitchen.
I would hover over their shoulders, trying to understand what they were doing—what seasonings they used, what tools they reached for—asking a million questions, even if it got me in the way. No matter who was cooking, I was there, watching every move. I was always fascinated by what they were preparing, whether it was a simple breakfast or a five-course meal. I observed the common threads between the dishes they made: similar tools, seasonings, and even decor.
Living in NYC, with its rich diversity, also grew my love for food. I had friends from Haiti, Guinea, Trinidad, Honduras, and more. Seeing their families in similar kitchens, cooking similar dishes, only deepened my curiosity. I started taking people’s recipes and infusing them together, creating new flavors and techniques. To this day, I still draw inspiration and tips from all the amazing people who’ve shaped my cooking journey.
Each of these cultures left a lasting impression on me, deeply influencing my love for cooking. I didn’t fully understand it growing up, but now, with my career in the kitchen, I see it more clearly than ever.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Becoming a chef hasn’t been a smooth road! Definitely had to allow myself space for trial and error to perfect recipes. Some of my struggles were connections. Coming from nyc where I’m fairly known to a place where everyone is complete strangers to me, has definitely made me put in the extra work to promote my business!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Im a chef! I specialize in Puerto Rican/Jamaican cuisine. I’m known for decorative set ups for my food! I’m most proud of my journey here in Atlanta, coming to a new city and being able to navigate in a new place. What set me apart from others is being outspoken and just having that Puerto Rican and Jamaican flare!
Any big plans?
I’m looking forward in branching off into a starting my own cookware line that gives us the authenticity of Caribbean cookware with a a modern twist
Contact Info:
