A Culinary Journey Rooted in Family and Community
Mariya Moore-Russell’s love for cooking can be traced back to her childhood days in Springfield, Ohio, where she would make mud pies and pretend to host her own cooking show.
Growing up in a large, loving family, food was always at the center of every gathering, instilling in her the importance of community and togetherness through shared meals.
“From grandma’s house and church basements; to Red Lobster and Perkins. The Moores and Pitts always dined together. It was there where her love and passion for the craft began to grow.”
Climbing the Culinary Ranks with Excellence
After receiving her culinary degree in Chicago, Moore-Russell embarked on a journey to hone her skills, working her way up through various front and back-of-house positions in the city’s restaurants. Her dedication to excellence and intentional choice of mentors enabled her to build a reputation as a talented and precise chef.
“She spent about 15 years working through both Front and Back- of- House positions; building a reputation of excellence by being intentional about who she worked for and following her heart.”
Breaking Barriers and Making History
In 2019, at the age of 29, Moore-Russell achieved a remarkable feat when she became the first Black woman to receive a coveted Michelin star.
As the Chef de Cuisine of Kumiko and Kikko, her simplistic, creative, and precise approach to gastronomy elevated the high-end cocktail bar, showcasing her ability to highlight the beauty of fresh ingredients with meticulous attention to detail.
“In 2019, she became the first Black woman to ever receive a Michelin star two days before her 30th birthday.”
A Shift Towards Entrepreneurship and Self-Discovery
After her historic achievement, Moore-Russell decided to pivot her career in a new direction during the pandemic. She moved to Hawaii, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and embracing what she ultimately wanted in life.
This period allowed her to prioritize rest, reaffirm her values, and envision her future endeavors.
“On this journey she learned more about her values, prioritized rest, and figured out the next steps of her newfound visions for the future.”
Connie’s Underground Supper Club: A Taste of Her Vision
In recent years, Moore-Russell has focused on pop-ups, chef collaborations, and the creation of her new concept, Connie’s Underground Supper Club.
This supper club, currently in development, represents her journey towards a more sustainable work style, offering Chicagoans a taste of her culinary expertise after years away from the city.
“The supper club is still under development but look out for more information soon.”
Mariya Moore-Russell’s remarkable achievement as the first Black woman to be awarded a Michelin star is a testament to her unwavering passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence in the culinary arts.
Her journey, rooted in family, community, and self-discovery, continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of black culinarians.
