Expose

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For Chattanooga chef Kenyatta Ashford, introducing high school kids to the culinary arts industry is a passion and his mission.

Chef Kenyatta was born and raised in New Orleans and was one of seven children in his household. The memories of his entire family coming together over meals were something that always stuck with him when he got older.

He started his career as a teacher but wasn’t sure if that was the path that he wanted to take forever. His wife’s family was in the food industry and he spent some time assisting them. That is what officially inspired him to get into culinary arts.

He and his family moved to New York so that he could attend The Culinary School of America. After a chef from New Orleans took him under his wing, Chef Kenyatta was even more inspired to give back.

“I’ve always had a heart to give back to our people, it’s a passion of mine,” Chef Kenyatta Ashford told Travel Noire.

He eventually made his way to Chattanooga where he and friend Carmen Davis started a supper club that they called ‘4 Courses And.’ The dinners aim to join people of diverse backgrounds together for engaging dialogue around various topics covered within one musical project over four courses. Chef Kenyatta is also the Chef de Cuisine at Bridgeman’s Chophouse located in The Read House Hotel in Chattanooga.

The club’s topic of convo and theme for 2019-2010 was inspired by Jay-Z’s “Story of OJ.” The song talked about economic development in the Black community and Chef Kenyatta wanted to build on that.

But what makes the dinners even more special is that Chef Kenyatta enlists the help of local high school students from schools in underserved neighborhoods in Chattanooga.

The students are brought in to assist with all aspects of the dinner, from prep to serving.

“We want them to be as proficient as possible.”

The plan is to host a dinner several times throughout the year. Chef Kenyatta also brings in other popular Black chefs who are making strides in the industry to serve as his guest chef.

To learn more about ‘4 Courses And’ or to check out more from Chef Kenyatta, you can find him on Instagram at @chefkenyattaashford.

Related: How To Spend A Day In Black-Owned Chattanooga, Tennessee

“When I realized that money wasn’t the end all be all, something ignited in me,” Genesis The Greykid told Travel Noire.

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Genesis moved around a lot due to his father being in the military. His mom literally drove from Atlanta to give birth because Chattanooga was her favorite city at the time.

His family never lived in the same place longer than a few years and it made it hard for him to develop long-lasting friendships. But, it also developed in him a fondness of people that inspired to begin writing poetry at an early age.

After a teacher spoke on how talented he truly was, it pushed him to take his creative passions to a new level. He started by putting his poetry to music which allowed him to form relationships with some pretty major people within the industry.

He eventually went to work as an engineer, but knew deep down that wasn’t his passion. He decided to quit and pursue his dream full-time.

“I rented out my house and couch surfed for about a year. It was hard at times, but I didn’t care because I wanted to pursue this.”

In addition to poetry, Genesis also had a love for drawing. Once the fire was ignited, he found a way to marry the two.

“The more I aligned with my own internal compass, the better my art became,” Genesis said. “I finally knew I was in the right place doing something that was true to me.”

During his first exhibition, which was held in Chattanooga, Genesis sold more than $12,000 worth of art. Influential people from across the courtly flew in just to get their hands on his pieces. The second exhibition, held near Skid Row in Los Angeles, brought even bigger names. But, Genesis even allowed for people who may have been living on Skid Row to come in as well.

“I had billionaires and the less fortunate in one place, bonding over art. I knew that by allowing them to come in, the exposure could do something great for them.”

That show positioned Genesis in a great way and he has since held exhibitions in major cities across the country. His work even reached a few producers that work closely with Kanye West. They reached out and asked Genesis to design the artwork for one of his last secular singles titled “Brothers.”

The song was released only through a T.V. show and has since been unreleased to not coincide with Kanye’s current gospel album.

“I booked a staycation at The Dwell Hotel in Chattanooga and really cleared my mind and set my intentions on creating work for the song,” Genesis said.

The piece has become so popular that galleries around the world are hoping for the chance to feature it. While visitors view the art, they will also be able to listen to the song (which will only be played in these galleries), in hopes that they draw inspiration to pay homage to their “brothers.” There will be an interactive component where people can write notes or letters to special men in their life.

As of now, there are plans to have the exhibit in London and Detroit. Plans are still being made as to what other cities will be included.

What makes Genesis’ story even more significant, is that despite traveling all over, he refuses to fly on an airplane.

“When I was younger I wanted to be a fighter pilot. But, something somewhere in life shook me to the point that I became terrified to fly.”

Instead, he takes trains, cars, or even boats to get to his shows around the world. He doesn’t mind because for him it’s more time to be creative along the way. His journey to London can take anywhere from 7-12 days by boat.

To catch more from Genesis or to check out his artwork, you can visit his website: www.throughthegrey.com. You can also find on Instagram at: @genesisthegreykid.

Related: This Black Artist Is Addressing Mental Health Through Her Hand-Painted Creations

If the fact that Trip Advisor ranked Chattanooga in the ‘7 rising U.S. cities that should be on your 2019 travel bucket list’ doesn’t persuade you to visit, we want to add a few more things to the list.

The charming Tennessee city is small but mighty and is easily accessible from several major Southeast destinations.

While we’re about to close out 2019, we definitely think you should give this city a try in 2020. Here are five reasons why.

(1) The Dwell Hotel

It’s not often that people will convince you to visit a city just for a hotel. But, The Dwell (120 E. 10th Street) isn’t just any hotel. This unique, 16-room boutique accommodation is unlike anything you have ever seen. Each guest room is decorated in its own theme and color scheme. With choices like ‘The Pink Flamingo,’ ‘The New Yorker,’ and ‘The Kite,’ you’ll never want to end your stay. There’s even a beautiful soaking tub in each room’s bathroom to provide that extra bit of relaxation after a day of exploring.

If that wasn’t enough, the hallways and the main downstairs area provide some of the best photo ops around. Be sure to clear out plenty of space in your phone or camera, because you won’t want to stop snapping.

(2) The Pedestrian Bridge

Nothing says ‘southern charm’ like a nearly half-mile-long pedestrian bridge the serves as a city’s backdrop. This popular bridge was once the longest pedestrian bridge in the world and Chattanooga residents utilize it for their daily stroll or run.

The beautiful rustic blue bridge is the perfect place for a romantic stroll with your significant other or a way to add in a little exercise during your visit. With picturesque mountains in the background, you’ll definitely be in awe.

(3) Local Eats

While each city across the country has its own unique culinary scene, some of the local shops in Chattanooga make this a spot worthy of a visit. Donut fans, you’ll want to check out the city’s Julie Darling Donuts (121 Frazier Avenue). This local favorite bakes up flavors like samoa, pancakes and bacon, as well as key lime pie. Yum!

Just across town is The Hot Chocolatier (1437 Market Street). This ‘all things chocolate’ bakery can whip up over a dozen different flavors of hot chocolate, including a spicy option. You can also indulge in chocolate-dipped Oreos and giant chocolate covered pretzels.

(4) The Aquarium

Chattanooga is home to the state’s largest indoor aquarium. The Tennessee Aquarium (1 Broad Street) is so big that they had to add a second building just to display all of the amazing exhibits that are housed there.

In one building you will find a river journey. These exhibits include an adorable otter display where you can spend hours (literally) watching these lovable creatures swim from end to end. They love to put on a show!

The second building is home to ocean life. Sit and watch the ocean’s most famous wildlife swim in a floor to ceiling tank that can be viewed from multiple points throughout the building. If you really want to be amazed, the butterfly garden will make you feel as though you’ve been transported into a fairytale.

(5) Outdoor art exhibits

What many people don’t know, is that Chattanooga prides itself on being an ‘outdoors’ destination. From kayaking on the river to being able to easily walk to any destination, visitors definitely spend lots of time outdoors while there.

But, a unique characteristic that the city has is that they have also taken a lot of their art scene outdoors too.

In many of the city’s alleyways, you can find fun art installations that change out often. Check out Passageways 2.0 (10 E. 7th Street) which is a permanent alleyway installation that’s also home to fun community events. There’s also a cool umbrella display in the alley behind Peet’s Coffee (819 Chestnut Street).

Related: How To Spend A Day In Black-Owned Chattanooga, Tennessee

When you hear Tennessee, you normally only associate it with Nashville. However, the city of Chattanooga is just as charming, and it’s only a short 90-minute drive from Atlanta and Knoxville and about 2 hours from Nashville.

If you happen to make your way to Chattanooga, here is how you can spend your time supporting some of the city’s Black-owned businesses.

Start by getting an introduction to the city’s Black history and learn about some of its famous residents at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. Located at 200 E. Martin Luther King Blvd., this museum pays homage to blues singer Bessie Smith, who is said to have gotten her career start in Chattanooga. You’ll also see photos of singer Usher Raymond and actor Samuel L. Jackson, who are both natives of the city.

Take a short Uber ride over to The Hunter Museum of American Art (10 Bluff Avenue), for an eye-opening exhibit titled ‘Blak Origin Moment’ by artist Noel W. Anderson. This exhibit, which will be on display until January 12, posits the question, when did you first know you were Black? Anderson uses imagery from television, FBI files, popular Black magazines like Ebony and Jet, and other media sources in an attempt to dissect the distortion of Black males in contemporary culture and media. If you don’t make it by January 12, there is an ongoing exhibit that features artwork of self-taught Black folk artists who have now been given the recognition they deserve.

If you’ve worked up an appetite, stop by one of many Black-owned restaurants across the city. If you love fried fish fresh out the grease, Uncle Larry’s Restaurant (736 E. Martin Luther King Blvd.) is your place. Owner Larry Torrence keeps your dining experience authentic to a neighborhood fish fry by serving meals on styrofoam plates.

If you’re in the mood for more traditional soul food, Davis Wayne’s (9454 Bradmore Ln.) will surely hit the spot. Choose your meat and sides and bring it all together with a piece of delicious homemade cornbread.

For the BBQ and smoked meat lovers, Chatterbox Cafe is where you’ll want to go. This mobile kitchen can mostly be found at 6801 Shallowford Rd. in Chattanooga. But, be sure to check his social media to find out the exact location just in case.

After you fuel up, take a tour of the city with Chattanooga Segway and Bike Tours. Owner Dianna Ward allows visitors (or residents who want to explore) the chance to see the area while having a little fun. If you’ve never used a segway, no worries. The team will take you through a lesson and ensure that you’re comfortable riding before you head out.

After your 2-hour tour and a quick rest at your hotel, get ready for an amazing food tour with Chatt Taste. Owned and curated by Chattanooga resident Briana Garza, these culinary tours are a way to get a glimpse into the city’s growing food scene. Transportation is provided during your five stops, thanks to partner company Chattywagon.

End your day by kicking back and listening to live music while networking with the city’s professional scene at the Chattanooga Cigar Club (1518 Market St.). Owner Darian Scott has created an atmosphere where people can come and sip on their favorite spirit while enjoying a cigar or a little hookah after a long day.

Related: A Day In Black-Owned Nashville