Chef Taiesha Clark Is The Culinary God Inspiring In The Kitchen & The Classroom
Taiesha Clark (Chef Tai) began her journey in Newark, NJ where she developed a passion for life and the go-getter mentality she is best known for today.
Life escorted her down different paths as she sought out her purpose in life. In 2009, Tai received a degree in education. Shortly thereafter starting her career at University Hospital in the Dietary Department, she abruptly switched gears and, wanting to learn all aspects of events, moved to Las Vegas to attend Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Las Vegas. She dove feet first into the world of event planning, mastering everything from hospitality to creating ambiance through food. She worked two jobs to put herself through the prestigious culinary school; a sacrifice she was willing to make for the sake of her vision.
In 2013, Chef Tai moved back to her roots and started a catering company, Culinary God, LLC. She has been serving up eclectic plates and putting smiles on people’s faces ever since. Chef Tai specializes in creating palette expanding experiences for her clients, is a recurring chef at the Newark International Film Festival and co-owner of the much sought-after Books and Brunch™. Chef’s endeavors go beyond just cooking. She loves nurturing the minds and creativity of young people whether as a culinary arts teacher at Marion P. Thomas, a Newark based charter school, or as a chef coach for Yo, Stay Hungry. Chef Tai is using her knowledge of food and culinary skills to make a difference in her community.
We caught up with Chef Tai to discuss her business, her journey as an entrepreneur and so much more!
What was the hardest thing for you getting started?
The hardest thing for me getting started was discovering the true life of an entrepreneur. I had to discover when running your own business nothing is consistent. The hours, the income, the traffic to your business fluctuates day to day. You are literally your own boss which sounds great but is a huge risk. There are times when your business is thriving and there are times when the business is at a standstill. Early on I had to learn how to sustain and grow my business.
Describe your day as a business owner.
My daily routine starts at 4:30am in which I like to get in a quick workout. Afterwards I like to read as it allows me to mentally prepare for work. I am a culinary arts teacher at Marion P. Thomas. When I’m not teaching or creating lesson plans, I am fully invested in my business Culinary God, LLC. My time is allotted to my business through shopping for ingredients, creating dishes/testing new flavors, small catering events, business inquiries and creating content for social media.
How is your business impacting people/the community for the better?
I’m Newark born and raised. I hope my story provides the encouragement for others growing up in my city to go follow your dreams. No dream is easy, but if you can dream it… you can do it! I’m also an advocate for healthy eating. The Black community is plagued with bad eating habits which is why diabetes and high blood pressure is prevalent. Through my food I want to show that cuisine can be both healthy and delicious.
What do you think about Makerhoods?
Makerhoods is just what Newark needed. I commend Makerhoods for wanting to keep the artists, chefs, fashion designers, creatives, and local talent in Newark. Too many people feel that they have to leave Newark and venture to New York in order to become successful. You guys are bringing back the entrepreneurial pride to Newark. The cherry on top is the amenities you are providing with a storefront, business coaching and community aspect. I love everything about Makerhoods.
What are your plans for 2020?
My business goals for the remainder of 2020 is to grow a bigger following on social media. I also want to start a YouTube channel recording cooking lessons. Lastly, I want to gain more customers!
What advice would you tell any self-starting entrepreneur?
When starting a business know your competition! Believe in yourself. Becoming an entrepreneur is hard work but if it was easy everyone would do it.
Anthony Smith, Community Outreach Coordinator
After graduating college and returning back to my hometown of Newark, NJ I became a member of the Newark Makerhoods team. This transformative experience put me in touch with many local entrepreneurs who are all in different business stages, ranging from established to upstart. Newark is a thriving city for talented creators. I'm here to share their stories and launch their business to the everyday public’s eye.