Meet Elisha Southern | Owner & Chef of DLISH

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elisha Southern and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elisha, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Over the years since coming home from college I started cooking more in the kitchen with my mom. I was either helping her out with traditional dishes or cooking my own. As time went on and as I started sharing my food with family and friends I would get a lot of compliments and commentary saying that I needed to start selling my food. So in June of 2020 I started my own food business of catering and having a food stand where I sell plates.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
This journey started with me going to culinary school at Kendall College at National Lewis University. Attending culinary school was pivotal for my career because I’ve learned hands-on experience and information from my chefs there that have stuck with me and help me grow into the cook that I am today. I have cultivated skills, communication, and efficiency that I otherwise wouldn’t have had if I didn’t go to culinary school. Before graduating with my associates in culinary arts degree I interned at 50s primetime cafe at Hollywood Studios Disney World in Orlando, Florida. My time there although short, was significant because of the experience working at a fast paced restaurant. It was my introduction into the culinary industry. It was not easy, every day was a different challenge but I embraced the entire experience because it was my first time being away from my family, and I prove to myself that I could take whatever came my way, and become better than the previous day.

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.
First, I would take them to Honeybear cafe for breakfast they have a great selection on there menu, the food is amazing and the vibe is warm and welcoming. Next I will take them on Michigan Avenue do some sight seeing and do a little shopping at Nordstrom maybe go to the water tower show them around. If we’re talking, summertime, take them to different festivals and hang out in West Loop. We will definitely have to catch a White Sox and Bulls game and then head to one of my favorite spots steak 48 for dinner.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to acknowledge my parents. My dad who allows me to use his facilities kitchen free of charge and supporting me through culinary school. My mom for always being my number one cheerleader and go to whenever I need her. To my DLISH team who voluntarily helps me every week in the kitchen.

Website: www.dlishcuisines.com

Instagram: dlish_mmm

Linkedin: elisha_sharron

Twitter: elisha_sharron

Facebook: Elisha Southern

Youtube: DLISH_MMM

Other: TikTok- Vellgirl27

Image Credits
Rhonda, Paula, Stephanie, Laurie