Meet Markita Adair-Crudup | Chef & Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Markita Adair-Crudup and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Markita, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I got comfortable with being more available for my family after I became a stay-at-home mom after having our last child in 2017. I loved working as a catering chef but I also really loved being with my family. I knew that I could work for myself doing what I loved but also I wouldn’t need approval to carve out time for my family. Secondly, I wanted to do the kinds of food and parties that I wanted to do. I’m over the huge, extravagant parties and weddings. Private, small events have always been my favorite because you get to engage with the client more.

What should our readers know about your business?

I don’t have a brick and mortar (yet). I get asked that question a lot. I travel throughout the Triangle area and as far as Wilmington and High Point. Since I’m focused on smaller scale occasions and events a lot of what I do happens in my clients kitchens. For larger events or parties that are in a venue I rent out kitchen space.

Another thing is that I also offer staffing services. Sometimes people don’t need help with a menu or the cooking but would like to be able to enjoy their guests and not the hassle of cleaning and serving. I have an incredible staff that can help in those instances as well.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oooh, so some of the restaurants that we’d definitely visit are Barcelona and Humble Pie in downtown Raleigh. Those are two of my absolute favorite places to eat! Maybe we would take in a movie at Fenton in the luxe recliners. This is the only place to watch a movie for me now and the food is great too! I’d take her to N.C. Museum of Art to stroll through an exhibit. We’d end the week on a chill note by catching some live music and doing a wine tasting at Chatham Hill.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband is my biggest supporter! A lot of what I’ve been able to accomplish over the last couple of years has been, in large part, due to his support, encouragement, and advice. My friend group is the best. We’ve known each other for decades. They have been there to pull me up when I was at my lowest. They help me to see what I’m capable of and push me so hard. Knowing that my kids are proud to see my accomplishments is an amazing feeling! My oldest recently told me that my cookbook cover was “fire”. Coming from a 19-year-old, I’d say that’s pretty awesome lol.

Website: www.Fromkitaskitchen.com

Instagram: @fromkitaskitchen

Linkedin: Markita Adair-Crudup

Facebook: Kita’s Kitchen

Image Credits
Cedric Gullatt