Whether you’re a die hard foodie, or simply challenged in the culinary department, this has been a difficult time for those of us who are used to going to our favorite spots to satisfy a food craving at the drop of a dime. And even though we all made sure to have fully-stocked refrigerators before the ‘shelter in place’ order went into effect, there’s nothing like having someone prepare your favorite meal for you. It’s a luxury many of us have taken for granted up until now. Despite the hit the food industry has taken, there are still a variety of options available to enjoy some of your favorite meals without leaving home. I found five Black Chicago chefs who are making our time indoors a little easier by serving up dishes that range from healthy and light to sinfully decadent during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
BRUCE JENKINS
This former personal Chef to NBA star Jimmy Butler makes some of the most creative and delicious desserts you’ll ever taste, from butter cakes with peanut butter cocoa frosting to my personal favorite: strawberry shortcake cake. If you stay on his Instagram page too long, you could end up licking the screen! For those of you worried about your waistline, you should know that desserts aren’t the only dishes he does well. There are healthier options if you’re looking to meal prep. For more information, go to Brucebecooking.com.
GREG BROOKS A.K.A. “CHEF FOOD HEFNER“
This Clark Atlanta University grad describes his food as “unique dishes that provide culinary orgasms”. From lobster mac and fried turkey, to peach cobbler tarts, I can tell you FIRST hand that his tantalizing dishes keep clients coming back for more. I once watched an entire newsroom devour an entire spread of his food within an hour! He also provides vegan dishes like ceviche and lasagna. If you’re looking to have one of these sexy meals whipped up for you and your “quarantine bae”, you can shoot him an email at FoodHefnerCatering@gmail.com.
JAMES SANDERS
He might be originally from East Saint Louis, but Chef Sanders is making his mark on the “CHI” by not only catering his innovative dishes to residents, but he’s also just opened a storefront on the Southside called “Dirty Birds Southern Kitchen”. He recently spoiled his customers with Lobster tail plates that came with shrimp, lamb chops, asparagus and mashed potatoes all for just $30. But just because you missed out on last week’s deal, doesn’t mean that he doesn’t have more recipes up his sleeve to ‘wow’ clients. For a full menu, check out fuzecateringcompany.com.
BRIANA HOUSTON
Fitness fanatics listen up! If you’re looking for Keto, vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian dishes while you’re stuck inside, this Le Cordon Bleu culinary school grad is whipping up delicious, healthy meals to keep you on the right track toward your fitness goals. Chef Bri provides clients a full day of meal prep options from berry chia oats, to vegan Meatballs and jackfruit tacos. To learn more, visit tastesofbri.com.
JULIUS RUSSELL
You didn’t think I’d write an article about Black chefs who cater without mentioning this guy, did you? Julius Russell A.K.A. “Chef Tiki” has dedicated much of his life to traveling the world and experimenting with various flavors, dishes and cooking styles. And while his repertoire consists of everything from New Zealand to Bahamian cuisine, his heart belongs to New Orleans. This Englewood native wasn’t born in the “Big Easy”, but his gumbo, etouffee and po’ boys will certainly make you think otherwise. He’s created a special “shelter at home” menu that can be delivered straight to your doorstep. It features lighter dishes like vegetable soup, to more elaborate meals like braised oxtails. For more information, visit his Facebook page at A Tale of Two Chefs or email chefjulius@taleof2chefs.com.
