Meet Chef LaToya Larkin
Chef Derrick: Can you tell us about a Black figure in your life who inspired your culinary journey? Chef LaToya: My grandmother was my inspiration.
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- Open Hours: Mon - Fri 8.00 am - 7.00 pm
Chef Kwame Williams is a distinguished private chef serving high-end clients across the tri-state area. He previously held the position of Chef and
Partner at Vital Dining in Montclair, New Jersey, a venture he co-founded with his sisters, Nataki and Kanika. At Vital, the trio focused on offering a modern and healthful take on Jamaican cuisine.
In 2016, Chef Kwame competed and won on the Food Network’s cooking competition, “Cooks vs. Cons.” In 2018, the James Beard House invited him
to cook a Caribbean-themed dinner.
As a devoted father of three, Chef Kwame recognizes the impact his food choices have on children. In his free time, he supports youth-based
initiatives such as No Kid Hungry, Edible Schoolyard, and Montclair Community Farms. He also contributed to the James Beard Foundation’s
cookbook, “Waste Not,” bringing awareness to food waste and sustainability.
Due to his advocacy, the James Beard Foundation invited Chef Kwame to their Chef’s Boot Camp. He continues to encourage aspiring chefs to
strengthen their culinary voice.
Kwame and Chef Derrick Lewis discuss Kwame’s culinary journey, highlighting his Caribbean heritage and influences from chefs like Everton Hartley. Kwame emphasizes the importance of passion in cooking and shares his experiences with fried chicken, a dish he finds culturally significant. They also touch on the representation of Black chefs in the culinary world, noting the challenges of gaining recognition and financial backing for culturally authentic concepts. Kwame mentions a documentary he worked on, “Where’s the Black Chef,” which explored these issues. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the strengths of both male and female chefs, emphasizing passion as the key to great cooking.
Chef Derrick is the owner and Head Chef at Well Kept Services, a boutique catering company in South Florida.
As a chef, Derrick is energetic, fun, and passionate. He is a proud member of the 2023 James Bead Legacy Cohort and has worked at top kitchens in Orlando such as LUMA, Luke’s & The Osprey.
Our mission at Well Kept Catering is to create an experience with every dish. Please consider us for your next private event, celebration, or intimate dinner gathering 
Reach out to us online: https://www.thewellkeptchef.com/
We looking forward to cooking for you!
– Chef Derrick Lewis
Chef Derrick: Can you tell us about a Black figure in your life who inspired your culinary journey? Chef LaToya: My grandmother was my inspiration.
Chef Kwame Williams is a distinguished private chef serving high-end clients across the tri-state area. He previously held the position of Chef andPartner at Vital
Chef Derrick: Can you tell us about a Black or AA figure in your life who inspired your culinary journey? Kendra Anderson: My culinary journey
My name is Belinda Bishop and I am an American-Grenadian chef. I am actively changing the scene in the spice island by fusing traditional cuisine
In the present culinary scene, “natural” is not just a trendy expression; it’s a lifestyle. The food service industry has embraced this pattern, offering options
The twinkling lights, the scent of fresh pine, the sound of joyous laughter — all the signs that the holiday season is upon us once
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