We had the good fortune of connecting with Cassandra Fleurimond and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cassandra, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my business derived from early childhood; it was something that was already installed in me waiting for me to discover. I remember as a child always eager to be in the kitchen with my mother and ready to assist. Coming from a big family my mother was always the go to person when it came to cooking because of her expertise in making great Haitian authentic dishes; the baton was being passed coincidentally. As I got older my curiosity about food expanded and passion grew out of it. Anything that gets your blood racing is probably worth doing, now here I am owner of a small catering business.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
All Flavs Eatery is a small catering business who indulges in variety of dishes mainly Caribbean dishes. We provide popular Caribbean dishes with our added touches, “with every bite taste delicious flavors” is our slogan. What I’m most proud about is stepping out of my comfort zone and taking risks; Taking risks has been a part of my journey ever since I started my business, from just starting with passion and an idea, no culinary experience or school but I knew I had what it takes. Being in the chef industry that’s male dominated has definitely brought out some intimidation. Going off of passion I’ve been doing my best beating the odds, being a young Black African woman, starting a small catering business with little experience and resources, investing money in my dream unknowingly if I’ll get anything in return, continuously creating a bigger vision for All Flavs Eatery. The biggest risk is not taking any risk, so I take the risk everyday with purpose.
How did you get to where you are today business-wise. Was it easy?
This is a good question and it always gets my mind racing because so many factors came into play that helped me succeed. First and foremost, GOD, going to him with every idea and thought I had about All Flavs Eatery, I always felt confident after speaking with him. Other factors were being self-disciplined, persistent and motivated even during uncertainties. After many trials an error, I learned that things flow how they should and to be content with the process I’m undergoing in this industry. It wasn’t easy and still isn’t but I’ve learned the best way out is always through. I saw each challenge as a sharpener and the opportunity to do better.
What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way.
All Flavs Eatery has taught me to keep pushing, the sky is the limit and after every storm comes a rainbow. I’ve learned to be unique, my unique at best. Never accept failure as a death sentence, two wrongs will ultimately lead you to doing something right. Embrace the journey, the difficult journeys, the confident journeys, learning journeys, embrace them all. Courage is grace under pressure.
What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
The name All Flavs Eatery tells it all, we like to indulge in many variety of dishes, the vision is always to create a space where everyone can see themselves going to despite, race and ethnicity. Food has a way of bringing people together, bringing comfort and happiness especially when it’s delicious. I get really excited about food and the creativity that comes with it. All Flavs Eatery is always looking to expand, re-creating dishes and being optimistic. I can assure you that there will always be something new that we’re working on. Cooking is the ultimate giving.
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 live in South Florida so there’s plenty of things to do; it’s ultimately a great state to visit! There’s so little you can do in a week, you’ll need at least a month vacation. So, here are some places I would visit.
Ft. Lauderdale:
Las Olas Boulevard downtown Ft. Lauderdale – Here, you’ll find plenty of tourist attractions and things to do, including shopping at more than 100 stores and restaurants.
Rhythm + Vine Bar & Outdoor Garden – Eclectic, indoor/outdoor beer garden with rotating food trucks, a vintage Airstream bar & local DJs. Definitely a great social spot.
Sister Sara’s Crab House & Grill – this is a great seafood spot, The fried garlic crabs, lobster and shrimp tub steam are crowd favorites.
Kasa Champet Restaurant & Lounge – this a great Haitian restaurant & lounge. They are known for their good quality popular Haitian dishes like Griot and Haitian Legumes.
Chwa Hollywood – is a premier Caribbean Fusion restaurant dedicated to providing quality food with fresh ingredients and a sophisticated atmosphere. They also have great alcohol beverages.
Miami:
Wynwood – the whole Wynwood area is one giant art installation. The neighborhood’s art-focused spirit shows on its walls, the frames hanging in more than 70 galleries, and in every dish and drink served in its hip restaurants and bars.
There’s so many more but these are a few great places to visit.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
God is the main factor behind my success, All Flavs Eatery started after repeatedly talking to him sharing my ideas and thoughts, after that, my mother Marianie Fleurimond who didn’t question me not one time about All Flavs Eatery starting up and has played a major role in our success, she is also one of the head chefs. Lastly, would be the great community I have as family, friends and clienteles; my sister Fredricka Fleurimond, Lucy Estreval owner of Lu Elegance and Clendie Ulysse owner of Lion of Judah hair care; who contributed enormously into All Flavs Eatery. My clienteles whose been keeping the dream alive! Supporting All Flavs Eatery in every way, they are the best! So I dedicate my shoutout to them.
Instagram: All_Flavs_Eatery
Facebook: Cassandra – All Flavs Eatery
Image Credits
Lorgina Saintfort