Today we’d like to introduce you to Shondrea
Hi Shondrea , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
From College Dream to Culinary Success: The Journey of Chef Drea
In the heart of the University of Central Missouri, a dream was born in 2018—one that would eventually take Chef Drea from the campus dining halls to the kitchens of some of Orlando’s most exclusive events. This is the story of Shondrea, the founder and heart behind a thriving culinary business that specializes in soul food, pasta, and tacos, and the passion that fuels every dish.
While still a student, Chef Drea began experimenting with cooking as a side hustle, selling plates three days a week to fellow students and faculty. What started as a small, campus-based endeavor quickly gained momentum as word spread about the delicious, homemade meals being served. “I realized cooking wasn’t just something I did to make extra money—it was something I loved. And I wanted to share that love with others,” Chef Drea recalls.
Upon graduation, Chef Drea took a leap of faith and dove headfirst into entrepreneurship. By offering catering services for everything from intimate baby showers to grand weddings, the business grew exponentially, becoming known for its mouth-watering soul food, savory Cajun pasta, and flavorful tacos (including birria and seafood), all accompanied by signature custom sauces. The personal touch and dedication that went into each dish made it clear that this wasn’t just another catering service—it was a brand built on care, quality, and community.
In 2022, seeking new opportunities and a larger market, Chef Drea relocated to Orlando, Florida, and restarted the business from the ground up. While the city’s culinary scene was bustling, it was clear that there was a void when it came to high-quality soul food and comforting pasta and tacos. Chef Drea seized that opportunity, infusing the area’s rich, multicultural energy into the menu offerings while staying true to the roots of the flavors she had perfected.
“Cooking is my peace,” Chef Drea shares. “When I’m in the kitchen, I’m in my zone. Food brings people together, and that’s something I’m passionate about—creating moments where people can connect over a shared love of great meals.”
Today, Chef Drea continues to expand the business, focusing not only on catering big and private events but also building a brand that resonates with those who value authentic, flavorful food. Whether it’s a private gathering or a large celebration, Chef Drea’s dedication to quality and excellence shines through every dish served. Looking ahead, the goal is clear: to continue growing, reaching more people, and making a lasting impact on Orlando’s dynamic food scene.
From humble beginnings to a flourishing culinary empire, the journey of Chef Drea is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and building something that not only feeds the body, but also nourishes the soul.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Relocating to Orlando in 2022 was a major turning point for Chef Drea, but it didn’t come without its challenges. Starting over in a new city meant building a brand from scratch, facing the uncertainty of a new market, and navigating the difficulties of establishing a loyal clientele. The road to success was filled with risks, late nights, and moments of doubt, but Chef Drea never considered giving up. She poured her heart into her craft, knowing that growth required patience and persistence. The struggle to adapt, take risks, and continuously prove her worth was tough, but it only fueled her determination to succeed. Today, those challenges have shaped her into a resilient entrepreneur, with a growing brand and a dedicated following that knows the value of her authentic, flavorful dishes.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Don’t let something stop you from
Chasing your dreams
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delisheatss?igsh=MWNnenl2bDZyMDA3Yw==
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@delisheatss?_t=8rxxbeFYGgU&_r=1
