We had the good fortune of connecting with Ted Ciceron and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ted, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve always knew that an entrepreneurial pathway was destined to be a part of my story; I just never imagined that I would be this young when venturing out into this world of business. When I decided to start my own business, Ciceron Kitchen, my thought process was that I wanted to create a business that highlighted one of my biggest role models and also created a legacy for my future children to carry on. My father learned how to cook Haitian cuisine in Haiti growing up under his also chef mother. Everyone always raves how much they enjoy his cooking when they eat his food, so I knew that the market of quality supply and demand would ultimately be in our favor. If some other business could make it out there with far inferior tasting food (no shade), there was no reason why we could not make our mark in the food world.
What should our readers know about your business?
Ciceron Kitchen has officially been in business since 2020, however the inception of its roots has been in the making for over 40 years. The family behind the name has a strong history of being great cooks and providing meals to their community that touch the soul. My father’s mother, Finellia Ciceron, was the trailblazer where it all originated from. She was known to feed the entire village in Haiti meals for those who were less fortunate. Not only did her meals come from a genuine and heartfelt place, but they were also very flavorful. What we believe sets us apart from the others in our same line of business, is that we operate on a level of excellence with how we serve and run operations. We also come with a distinct taste that you cannot find with all cuisine businesses. We are excited for the day to operate a full restaurant and provide this area with a different vibe and taste of Caribbean cuisine. We know it is inevitable success and are simply waiting for our turn to be called up next. It has not been an easy ride on this journey as a business, dealing with financial setback at times and customer inconsistencies. We overcame some of those challenges by staying consistent with promotion on social media and not giving up searching for grants and applying for money opportunities given by the government. Patience and staying motivated are definitely some lessons learned from this business journey. Reminding yourself that good things take time and that although it may delay, does not mean you will be denied that opportunity. in the end. The world needs to know that Ciceron Kitchen will make it and will be a well known food business in the years to come. Watch out!!!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta is the southern mecca for entertainment and cuisine in my opinion. When I am in the mood for a night on the town, I enjoy heading to midtown or Buckhead for some fine dining, specifically the following places. When I am trying to entertain a group of friends and family from out of town, I enjoy taking them to a night of fun at the Ugly Duck. I also enjoy going to Piedmont Park with family to enjoy the outdoors and Atlanta skyline view.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out one of my good friends and mentor, Richardson Jean for his friendship and guidance through this business venture journey. He also owns his own business, Seasons Pass Rentals, and has talked me through a lot of different roadblocks and has shown true love and support with Ciceron Kitchen. It makes a world of a difference when you have friends around the same age as you, carving out new pathways that have yet to be made.
Website: https://www.ciceronkitchen.com/
Instagram: @ciceron_kitchen
Facebook: Ciceron Catering