Meet BobbieCheri | Chef/ Cookbook Author

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

Hi BobbieCheri, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve always bet big on myself. It’s probably because failing isn’t the end of the world to me. It’s just an opportunity to be great at something else. I think risk taking is the greatest confidence builder.

Creating Don’t You Dairy was a big risk. I entered the culinary world with no real experience. I could just cook really well. I’m now  a full time stay at home mom ( My brand is my baby). Unlike a traditional 9-5, there are no days off. I literally have to catch what I eat. The opportunities are endless so it’s worth it. And if things get tricky, feet finder is a thing. Listen, no face, no case!

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.

When people ask what I do my response is ” I’m in the hospitality industry”. I make those around me feel welcome. People support me because my spirit and love is attached to everything I do.

Being diagnosed with fibromyalgia led me to creating Don’t You Dairy. Fibromyalgia, in a nutshell, is your nerves overacting and sending signals to your brain that there’s pain. Basically, it’s all in my head. My doctor recommended cutting out dairy. In 2019, I launched my cookbook ” Don’t You Dairy”. I created 50 of the most delicious dairy free recipes this side of the Mississippi.

On my culinary journey I’ve learned that keeping ya eyes on ya own paper is key because everybody’s test and journey is different. Certain things will only work or happen for me because I’m ME. It’s important to remember that when you’re struggling with comparison or imposter syndrome.

I believe with art, which is what all  creatives make, it’s never about what you’re viewing. It’s always about the story behind it and how it makes you feel. Food, along with music, brings people together in the most beautiful way. I love providing an experience for clients where they can’t stop talking about it. And I know it’s not just about the food. The art we present to the world is birthed from our traumas, experiences, and how we see the world. My goal is to leave people better than I find them.

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.
I’m an L.A native but spent the last 3 years living in Downtown Long beach. If the weather wasn’t being 51/50 We would walk the shoreline, grab drinks from a couple of my favorite bars then go to my favorite record shop. Eaton Canyon for hiking. Simply Wholesome for patties and smoothies only. My house for the  food because honestly I can’t think of a better place. There are so many museums to visit and concerts, flea markets and festivals go on every week. It’s always something fun to do.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe my will to push forward to my loved ones. They not only support me with their pockets but also with their words and referrals. My friends talk about me a lot behind my back ( in a good way). I’m so grateful for people that are putting my name in the hat for opportunities especially when they have nothing to gain from it. I’m truly loved and blessed.

Website: www.dontyoudairy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dontyoudairy_/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/dont-you-dairy-hawthorne

Image Credits
Chef images by Luc- Richard Photography Food images by Ezra Thorne