Meet Roshonda Kelly | Executive chef & owner of heavenlys305

We had the good fortune of connecting with Roshonda Kelly and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Roshonda, what do you attribute your success to?
As a chef I believe the most important factor behind my success is, authenticity, transparency, and dedication. Staying authentic to who I am is key in attracting the people who best appreciate what it is I offer as a chef. Being transparent gives my clients the confidence they need to trust me and my ability to supersede the expectations of each client. Being dedicated to my craft and my desire to serve people consistently pushes me to undeniable heights. Making my clients experience a little bit of heaven in every bite.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Heavenly’s 305 is my true calling. I was raised in the Baptist church. Where we did a lot of eating and fellowshipping. I learned so much about the act of service and meeting people right in the mist of where they are. I believe it’s that foundation in life I took from my rearing that make heavenly’s so different. The art of what we do is serve, but serve with grace. Keeping my faith and the reputation of god at the forefront of our brand has never been easy. Being a lesbian couple and a part of the lgbtqia+ community and speaking boldly on my beliefs has played a significant role in obstacles for our brand. Nevertheless my goal was never to serve a particular group of people. Rather it was to serve all people. I believe God calls each of us in some way. That he gives us talents and abilities to do things that no one else can do quite like you. However it’s our calling to use those gifts in the edifying of his kingdom. To be a representation of him. See God give peace, love, and unconditional grace. Heavenly’s core foundation is to apply his peace, love, and unconditional grace to every person we come in contact with. That is what ultimately makes us different from any other company. You will never experience just good food and beautiful decor. You will always feel a sense of peace that surpasses your understanding. You feel the love and dedication in every bite. What will be undeniable is the grace you will be served with. Rather your the poorest or the richest. We will always serve you with the highest standard. I have broken down every obstacle by staying committed to my truths. Not bending or compromising on my core values. I believe that is what the world should know about heavenly’s 305. We are committed to exceptional service. You can go to any restaurant and receive good service. Anyone can be nice and kind. However not everyone has the ability to empathize and sympathize. When creating heavenly’s I want a company that not only sympathizes with people but empathize with them. Understand them put yourself in every client shoes. We are 2 young vibrant ladies from the bottom of the map. Miami fl were it’s a melting pot of diversity and culture. We took the knowledge of working with people from all walks of life and creating a universal hub full of peace, love and unconditional love. Growing up in the most urban and challenging neighborhoods in Miami played a major part of our desire to excel. We had no hand outs, not opportunity no help. All we had was a dream and a drive filled with hope and passion. We wanted the world to understand that even those of us on the other side of the bridge (of south beach) had potential and value. Extraordinary talents and the ability to stand in any room and be equivalent.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We recently moved here’s to the Atlanta area. We are learning the city and getting to know and understand the culture. We have learned since being here that some of the best things about Atlanta is its southern hospitality and charm. I’d for sure want to so off the Stone Mountain area. Full of beautiful landscapes and delicious foods. Piedmont park is a must see. It’s so vibrant and diverse. And also the midtown area the culture and the shops and food. Truly an unforgettable experience.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My grandmother is key in my ability to cook the way I do, and my style of cooking. I was influenced by her dedication in the kitchen rather it was from a professional or personal standpoint. She taught me how not to just cook but to serve joy and happiness through meals. Meals that touched not just your stomach but your soul. However I’d be remiss if I did not give my business partner, my best friend, my wife the ultimate credit. Chef ki, is the glue behind what heavenly’s is. She is who put the battery in my back. She pushed me to step on my dreams and concur every obstacle. She handles all my business and social needs. Chef ki brings the life to heavenly’s, with her eye for detail and her keen sense of style and décor. Our presentations are jaw dropping because of her commitment to elegance.

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Image Credits
Spex photography