We had the good fortune of connecting with Laurel R. Elliott and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi laurel R., we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
Find the people who make you shine and bring out the best in you and keep them close. It’s important that as we grow in business and in life that we become increasingly selective about who we share our space with. This decision can make or break you. Reciprocity within your curated circle is always important. If you take the time to develop relationships with people who are complimentary to your life and business journey, you will never be alone and success will always be your friend. Don’t only seek to surround yourself with people who share all of your views, but surround yourself with good people. Surround yourself with independent free-thinkers.

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.
I am a culinary enthusiast, chef and consultant with strong Caribbean roots in Trinidad and Tobago. and a great love for the South. I have been fortunate enough to have found opportunities for growth in the foodservice and culinary industries for 19 years and my journey continues. The past 3 years have brought a more condensed focus on growing, already-existing international business relationships and consulting opportunities. My passion lies in creating one-of-a-kind solutions for business owners who focus on the food and manufacturing industry. As a consultant, I delve into menu creation, ideation, marketing and concept development. Where possible, I involve sustainability and economic development in my projects. My multicultural background is a tremendous advantage when it comes to understanding and creating craveable international -inspired flavors.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Chattahoochee food works
Little Sparrow
Cafe Agora
Fox Bros BBQ
Taqueria del Sol
D’Cuban Cafe
Nando’s
Bo Bo Garden
Nam Phuong
Chinese Dhaba
Takorea
The Po’Boy Shop
Pollo Primo
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to credit Edie Weintraub, my friend and cheerleader for all things good. She is not only a master curator of culture, real estate, and food halls, but also a master connector of authentic people.

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-r-elliott?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BZNclF43XQtuqpS%2BeKEwMjA%3D%3D

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-r-elliott?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BZNclF43XQtuqpS%2BeKEwMjA%3D%3D

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.