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

Hi Karen, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I’m from Mississippi. My background impacted so much I my career today. Ive always hanged around the older people in the kitchen picking up on recipes and it was something that always was my stress reliever. I’ve always been very good with my hands. I started from going to cosmetology school in the 90s. Art institute college for fashion in 2015. The main thing that drove me to the career today was the pandemic. Started what I really love cooking from home and selling plates and catering.
 
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a chef/ restaurant owner. I have always love to cook. I’m most proud of that a small town girl like me moved to Houston and succeeded in making a career out of what I love to do. I got to where I’m at by the grace of God. I began cooking from home and selling plates and catering during the pandemic. I even used DoorDash as a revenue to bring more business. One of my business partners tasted my food and it began from there. The challenges that came about was the different personalities you deal with with being in a partnership with people. One thing I’ve learned is be true to yourself keep the same kind of personality that brought my customers to me. People will try to change your look, the way you talk even your beliefs and values. I want the world to know that I’ve prayed for God to bless me in this way. Yes it’s hard work. But I wouldn’t change anything. I’ve learn how to open a restaurant from start to finish.
 
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Of course all my friends love my food. So I would take them to my restaurant Southern Soul Kitchen. I don’t go out. So I would entertain at my house. Cook, play games, and relax.
 
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Larry, He owns the Boudin Company.

Website: www.southernsoulkitchenllc.com

Instagram: southern_soul_kitchen_llc

Facebook: Southern soul kitchen

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.