monty loo cherry

Who or what inspires you to cook?

I am inspired by my southern upbringing, from helping my momma make chicken & dumplings on the first days of Kentucky winter to how every family gathering was reason to spend the day by the BBQ pit. I have also been inspired by my forever curiosity about the world and how other cultures all approach the magic of food in such different fashions, with different ingredients & techniques and yet it comes down to the same themes. What fills your stomach and your heart? Come sit at my table.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

Gumbo. It is a dish that is defined by the time and care you put into it and mine will make your momma cry. & it is crazy simple but charbroiled oysters thrill me. I love playing with fire!

What would you do with the $25,000?

Equally inspired by club kid culture & by southern fish fries, I would invest in the equipment and studio space required to build my vision of creating a community experience with my food, in amazing venues, to create moments rare and needed. I dream of having a kitchen where people know they can always come to if they want a hot meal, good company, and a dance floor. With this money, I could have a space to do that. And all I need is a space to build the sanctuary I invision.