Chef and Owner Candis Jones was born and raised in the small neighborhood of New Orleans East. She grew up with both parents and a younger sister, who encouraged her early culinary experiments. At just ten years old, Candis began making simple breakfast foods like eggs and pancakes, inspired by watching her parents and grandparents in the kitchen.

"New Orleans food stems from the deep-rooted culture of our neighborhoods," says Candis. However, after Hurricane Katrina, Candis moved to Atlanta with her family in 2005 and found that most "New Orleans Style" eateries didn't capture the essence of home. Determined to recreate the flavors of New Orleans, Candis started cooking and selling plates in high school, finding home and success in sharing her culinary heritage.

In college, Candis continued her side hustle, selling plates to enthusiastic customers. In 2019, she founded New Orleanz Soul Kitchen LLC. "I got tired of seeing all of the fake New Orleans places; I felt it was disrespectful to our true culture. I wanted to be that change," says Candis. She aimed to offer people an authentic taste of New Orleans, beyond the stereotypes portrayed in the media.

"We are more than just a pot of Gumbo and Mardi Gras; there is a meaning behind the heart and soul of the city," says Candis. Through her recipes and products, Candis hopes to represent the love, family-oriented, fun, and resilient essence of New Orleans.