Meet Shannon Guzman | Private Chef and Caterer

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

Hi Shannon, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I would say the most important factor behind my success is the relationships that I have built with my clients and being able to maintain that. Also providing quality food and service has helped me gain new clientele along the way. My drive to want to be better after each event that I do. Seeing where I could have done better and understanding what my shortcomings are and improving time and time again.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The name of my business is Food With Benefits. We’re a Catering Company and we also offer Private Chef Services. I would say we’re most known for our extravagant Brunches and our Private Dinners.

I started this business with Donte Clay. He came to me with the idea of doing Private Chef services and catering. I had already been catering by myself for years. We sat down and discussed our vision and brought it to life. 3 years later here we’re! It has not always been easy. I have put my heart and soul into building this brand for me and my team. A lot of sleepless nights and overbooking some days, running on fumes, but we always got it done and provided top tier service to our Clients.

What I’ve learned along the way is to not pay attention to what other Chefs are doing. Everyone has a different path, different style and different vision. I’ve learned it’s important to stay true to your vision and who you are. That is what sets us apart. You will get the same quality food from us every time and they’re all my recipes.

What I would like people to know about my story is that I used to be a stay at home mom and that’s where my love for cooking developed. I started out meal prepping, from there I started catering and years later have started a successful small business and I get to employ my friends and family. Never give up on your dreams and goals. Anything is attainable and I thank God for bringing me this far.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
To eat I would take them to Baby Kay’s. I go there a couple times a month for the Duck Gumbo and Fried Catfish. It’s my favorite! To drink and hang out I would go to Hanny’s. They have the best Martinis and you have to get the Honey Hot Pepperoni Pizza as well.

I like low key spots, I love Chars. I go for the drinks and live music. I just discovered the Churchill and I love it. They have the best burger I have ever had in my life there. They have a lot of small restaurants and bars with patio seating. It’s a vibe, good for a date or a group of friends.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shoutout my Brother, Mentor, Best Friend, Tony Godbolt aka The Kitchen Rebel. His work ethic and dedication to his craft is truly an inspiration to me. Also Gustavo Martinez for never letting me give up and always pushing me to my fullest potential. His advice, love, support and words of wisdom have helped me succeed in every area of my life and I am grateful.

Instagram: Foodwithbenefits2020

Facebook: Food With Benefits

Other: Chefshannon_guzman