We recently connected with Paul Morehead and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Paul, thanks for joining us today. One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.

In the southwest region of Atlanta, particularly south of I-20, chain restaurants are more prevalent than locally owned mom-and-pop establishments. I believe that family-run restaurants bring a unique touch to their food, often passing down recipes through generations and adding their own creative flair. Like many great chefs, my passion for cooking began at a young age. I was first inspired as a child when I discovered my mother’s recipe for banana nut bread, sparking my love for the culinary arts.

Many chefs choose to open restaurants in high-traffic areas, but I firmly believe that if you offer exceptional, high-quality food, location becomes secondary. When people crave an unforgettable dining experience, they will go out of their way to find it—no matter where you are.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a combat veteran with a deep passion for cooking. My culinary journey began with barbecue competitions, which eventually led me to an incredible opportunity working with NASCAR. Through NASCAR, I gained television exposure, expanded my fan base, and connected with a broader audience who appreciated my craft.

While pursuing my undergraduate degree at Fayetteville State University, I became the go-to cook for many gatherings, honing my skills and sharing my love for food. After college, I continued preparing meals for intimate gatherings with friends and family in my home. As word spread, people began requesting to purchase my food. The overwhelming compliments fueled my passion, pushing me to dive deeper into the culinary world by researching, refining my techniques, and taking specialized classes.

During the pandemic, I saw an opportunity to bring high-quality, gourmet food to those who couldn’t afford it. I frequently visited apartment complexes, offering fine dining experiences to those in need. At the end of each day, I ensured that no food went to waste by donating leftovers to local homeless shelters. Giving back is at the heart of what I do, and one of my proudest moments is preparing and delivering a free Thanksgiving meal to a single parent each year.

I am dedicated to providing my clients with an unforgettable culinary experience. The human tongue perceives five taste sensations, yet most meals only activate two. My goal is to engage all five, creating dishes that leave a lasting impression and elevate every dining experience.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I consider myself one of the most humble individuals you’ll ever meet. Receiving positive feedback from customers has never been the easiest thing for me—I’ve always preferred to stay behind the scenes, letting my food speak for itself. However, I’ve come to appreciate that exceptional customer service, paired with high-quality, flavorful dishes, has been the foundation of my growing reputation. While my passion lies in the kitchen, the joy and satisfaction of my customers continue to inspire me every day.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Undeniably, word of mouth has been the driving force behind many of my opportunities, allowing my reputation to grow organically through the genuine support of satisfied customers. As mentioned earlier, my involvement with NASCAR also played a significant role in expanding my reach. It not only provided invaluable exposure but also opened doors I never imagined possible. Through this platform, I was able to introduce my signature sauce to the West Coast, bringing my unique flavors to a broader audience and solidifying my presence in the culinary world.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @chefmorehead7
• Linkedin: paulmorehead01

Image Credits

Chef Morehead