Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tara Jones. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Tara , appreciate you joining us today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

The journey to naming our business, Tara-Peri Chicken, was as intricate and rewarding as tracing the branches of my family tree. As a Black American woman of multiethnic heritage, I have always been deeply fascinated by genealogy. My lineage, verified and certified through meticulous research and membership in lineage societies, tells the story of a diverse ancestry that spans continents and cultures. This diversity is not just a part of my history, but the very essence of who I am, influencing every aspect of my life, including the culinary specialties which I prepare. In naming this business, I wanted to honor this heritage by creating a space that celebrates the flavors and traditions passed down through generations. Tara-Peri Chicken is an homage to my ancestors, an embodiment of the colorful threads that weave together my identity.

The name “Tara” holds a personal significance, representing not only my own Irish name, but also the freedom and creativity I enjoy in the kitchen. It symbolizes the limitless possibilities of culinary exploration and innovation, reflecting the eclectic mix of influences from African, European and American Southern cuisines. Each dish crafted under the “Tara” umbrella points to the personal and cultural influences that have shaped my palate and culinary skills. It allows me to express my passion for cooking in its purest form, where each meal is a marriage of flavors and a bridge between past and present. Whether it’s traditional Nigerian jollof rice, Spanish paella or Southern jambalaya, the “Tara” element of our family’s business showcases global cuisines.

The “Peri Chicken” part of our business name is a nod to our Southern African roots, where the peri-peri pepper reigns supreme. Peri-peri chicken, with its fiery and aromatic flavors, represents not just a dish but an experience. By incorporating peri-peri into our business name, we include the spicy, spirited essence of our heritage, inviting others to savor the spirited flavors that have been a staple in our family for generations. Tara-Peri Chicken is more than a business; it’s a culinary narrative that invites everyone to partake in the story of our lineage, one delicious bite at a time.

Tara , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a passionate chef and food stylist based in my hometown of Pittsburgh, PA.

Growing up in a household that recognizes multiculturalism, I developed an appreciation for varied cuisines and flavors. This passion for food was fostered by my mother, Stacey Harris, the esteemed author and CEO of The Diabetic Pastry Chef. She has carved a niche in the world of sugar-free desserts, creating remarkable treats that are both health-conscious and flavorful.

Together, we form a dynamic culinary duo, with my mother specializing in incredible sugar-free pastries, while I focus on a broader range of culinary offerings inspired by my multiethnic background, including our signature peri-peri chicken and other sweet and savory dishes.

Our family-run business is a harmonious blend of our talents and passions. My husband, John, plays a crucial role in our operations, handling deliveries and sales, ensuring our creations reach our clients with the utmost care and efficiency. We take pride in participating in local farmers’ markets, where our products have garnered a loyal following.

My professional journey includes a rewarding tenure as a chef and culinary expert at Williams-Sonoma, where I taught cooking classes. This experience refined my skills and deepened my understanding of culinary arts, allowing me to connect with food enthusiasts and share my knowledge and passion for cooking with a broader audience.

What sets our business apart is our commitment to delivering high-quality, multiethnic culinary experiences. Our offerings range from our signature Southern African peri-peri chicken sandwich and traditional Portuguese pastéis de nata to Southern pecan pie to my mother’s renowned sugar-free international desserts. We aim to provide access to comforting and health-conscious food options, making a significant impact in our community. I am immensely proud of the cultural heritage our brand represents and the joy it brings to our clients.

Our work is an amalgamation of flavors, family and tradition, and we strive to create memorable dining experiences that resonate with our customers. Above all, I want potential clients and followers to know that our brand is built on love, passion and a deep respect for the culinary arts.

How have you strengthened your reputation in the market?

Building a reputation in the culinary market is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a combination of quality, consistency and community engagement. For Tara-Peri Chicken, our reputation has been significantly bolstered by the accolades and recognition we have received over the years. Receiving the Restaurant Guru “Recommended” award for three consecutive years, from 2023-2025, demonstrates our commitment to delivering elevated culinary experiences. This recognition not only validates our efforts, but also raises our visibility within the industry, attracting a discerning clientele who appreciate the authenticity and international flavors we offer. Furthermore, being honored with the Nextdoor “Neighborhood Fave” award in 2024 was particularly meaningful, as it reflects the trust and affection we have garnered within our local community. These awards have played a crucial role in establishing our credibility and reinforcing our brand’s standing as a favorite culinary destination.

Beyond the accolades, our reputation is deeply rooted in the relationships that we’ve cultivated with our customers. Our presence at local farmers’ markets has been instrumental in connecting us directly with the community, allowing us to engage with customers on a personal level. The enthusiastic response we receive at these markets, coupled with the glowing reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations, speaks volumes about the loyalty and satisfaction of our clientele. Customers flock to us not just for the unique taste of our dishes, but also for the warmth and authenticity that define our brand. Each positive review and repeat order mirrors the trust our customers place in us, and it inspires us to continually strive for excellence. By consistently delivering top-tier foods and fostering meaningful connections, we have been able to build and sustain a reputable presence in the culinary market, one in which we are proud.

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

Our reputation within the market has been significantly strengthened by the recognition we’ve received via esteemed accolades and the fervent support of our community. These honors not only validate our culinary prowess, but also spotlight our commitment to quality and authenticity. They have highlighted our brand as a trusted and distinguished name in the culinary scene, attracting customers who appreciate our dedication to delivering colorful, flavorful experiences.

Equally important to our reputation is the direct engagement with our customers, particularly through our presence at local farmers’ markets. These markets serve as vibrant platforms for us to interact with our community, allowing us to showcase our products and share our passion for food.

The consistent praise and positive reviews we receive from customers, both at these markets and through online platforms, underscore the satisfaction and loyalty of our clientele. This direct feedback loop has been vital in building trust and building a strong connection with our audience, making our brand a beloved staple in the community.

My mother and I also do baking demonstrations and teach cooking classes. The local community appreciates seeing us wherever we pop up and they have a lot of zeal for our appearances. Attendees of our demonstrations and classes often tell us that the information we’ve given them has proven to be invaluable in their own culinary endeavors and they have become more confident in the kitchen as a result!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.TaraPeriChicken.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TaraPeriChicken