Q&A with SOUL STAFF

Dee Baymore

Head Chef

JBJ Soul Kitchen

What brought you to JBJ Soul Kitchen?

I’ve known about JBJ Soul Kitchen for some time and have always been drawn to its mission. After working in big-name restaurants, I wanted to shift toward something that aligned more closely with my core goals of feeding people and giving back. Knowing Chef Emily from a previous job, I jumped at the chance when a position opened up at their Red Bank location!

What makes JBJ Soul Kitchen Different from another restaurant down the street?

JBJ Soul Kitchen is more than just a place to eat; we’re about real change and helping to make those positive changes in the community. The staff and volunteers are here because they genuinely want to be, sharing a common mindset and mission. There’s a unique feeling of being part of something bigger. You don’t see that often.

How would you encourage someone to dine and/or volunteer with us?

We provide excellent high quality restaurant food for a great cause, which often surprises diners since it’s a 3-course meal. Where else can you spend your dining dollar knowing it directly supports those in need? Volunteering provides a chance to meet new people, connect with the community, and even learn new skills, whether you’re working in the kitchen, serving, or helping out in our beautiful garden!

What inspired you to start cooking?

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, influenced by my culinary family. My mother and grandmother are incredible bakers, and my father is a fantastic savory cook. For me, cooking feels like home and a way to channel my creative energy into something that can brighten someone’s day or even their year. Good food is important, and I wanted to be a part of creating it.

What dish do you cook that is the most meaningful to you, and why?

Thanksgiving dinner holds special meaning for me. It’s my favorite holiday because it’s centered around giving, family, and showing appreciation. I love the sense of togetherness that comes from sharing a meal with family and friends.

What brought you to JBJ Soul Kitchen?

I’ve known about JBJ Soul Kitchen for some time and have always been drawn to its mission. After working in big-name restaurants, I wanted to shift toward something that aligned more closely with my core goals of feeding people and giving back. Knowing Chef Emily from a previous job, I jumped at the chance when a position opened up at their Red Bank location!

What makes JBJ Soul Kitchen Different from another restaurant down the street?

JBJ Soul Kitchen is more than just a place to eat; we’re about real change and helping to make those positive changes in the community. The staff and volunteers are here because they genuinely want to be, sharing a common mindset and mission. There’s a unique feeling of being part of something bigger. You don’t see that often.

How would you encourage someone to dine and/or volunteer with us?

We provide excellent high quality restaurant food for a great cause, which often surprises diners since it’s a 3-course meal. Where else can you spend your dining dollar knowing it directly supports those in need? Volunteering provides a chance to meet new people, connect with the community, and even learn new skills, whether you’re working in the kitchen, serving, or helping out in our beautiful garden!

What inspired you to start cooking?

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, influenced by my culinary family. My mother and grandmother are incredible bakers, and my father is a fantastic savory cook. For me, cooking feels like home and a way to channel my creative energy into something that can brighten someone’s day or even their year. Good food is important, and I wanted to be a part of creating it.

What dish do you cook that is the most meaningful to you, and why?

Thanksgiving dinner holds special meaning for me. It’s my favorite holiday because it’s centered around giving, family, and showing appreciation. I love the sense of togetherness that comes from sharing a meal with family and friends.

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