THE FACES OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

Rawn Grant II and Ronnis Gomez

What is one meal you could never live without?

Rawn: Lasagna is definitely one of my favorites – and Shepherd’s Pie – and mac & cheese! 

Ronnis: Bread.

Give us your advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs.

Rawn: Have a dream and a plan and enjoy the process of watching all your hard work and dedication become a reality. Enjoy learning new things every day. Don’t be afraid to fail and seek advice, as knowledge resources come in many different shapes and forms. 

Ronnis: They need discipline and persistence.

Which dishes and drinks are your customers’ favorites?

Rawn: One of our most popular cocktails at the moment is a Pear Martini. Simply delicious and refreshing while not being too sweet. The blackened redfish is definitely one of the best-selling dishes here at Celeste. It’s a great representation of our chef’s culinary influence as well as our Cajun and New Orleans influence.

Ronnis: Scampi, Jambalaya, Fried Green Tomatoes..

If you were to go on a food tour anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Rawn: Caribbean Islands! Most of my favorite foods are Caribbean. I love and enjoy the creativity, techniques, and ingredients that make up their signature dishes.

Ronnis: Italy! 

Cooking at home or going out for dinner?

Rawn: Cooking at home is always a joy. To watch ingredients and blend together and create a masterpiece is always so rewarding. It doesn’t always go as planned but definitely satisfying and enjoyable to learn new recipes and techniques. 

Ronnis: Definitely cooking at home; it’s good to spend time with family.

Give a shout-out to a local restaurant you love. 

Rawn: Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine & Lounge.

Ronnis: One Hot Mamas.

Italian or Mexican food? 

Rawn: Italian cuisine is definitely one of my favorites.

Ronnis: Italian!