For food lovers, culture shapers, and entrepreneurs hungry for authenticity and impact

In Newark—a city known for its grit, culture, and undeniable flavor—Elizabeth Williams, better known as Chef Phatty, is building something bigger than food. She’s crafting experiences rooted in memory, culture, and connection. Raised in what she calls “the number blocks,” her story is one of resilience, creativity, and unapologetic authenticity. From a young girl affectionately nicknamed “Moochie” for always reaching onto someone else’s plate, to a chef with over 13 years of experience, her journey is as rich and layered as the dishes she creates.

Chef Phatty: A Culinary Journey of Passion and Innovation

Chef Phatty doesn’t just cook—she tells stories through flavor. Specializing in soul food fusion and custom catering, her work reflects a deep understanding of tradition paired with a bold willingness to experiment. Her dishes are not confined to one culture or technique. Instead, they exist at the intersection of familiarity and surprise, where comfort food meets elevated presentation. She calls her style “Ethnic Chic” or “boujetto”—a blend of hood roots and refined execution. It’s about presenting culture with elegance while staying true to where it came from. Every plate is intentional, designed not only to satisfy but to spark conversation and connection across different backgrounds.

Her love for food didn’t come from formal training—it came from life. Some of her most vivid memories are tied to shared meals with family and friends, where food was more than nourishment; it was community. The laughter, the music, the messy conversations—those moments shaped her understanding of what food could do. It could bring people together. It could create space. It could tell stories without saying a word. That early connection laid the foundation for everything she does today.

Her culinary curiosity was also fueled by unconventional access to inspiration. Growing up without cable, she found creative ways to tap into it—literally. Running a wire to catch glimpses of cooking shows, she became captivated by figures like Emeril Lagasse, Alton Brown, and Julia Child. Watching them on Food Network and PBS, she absorbed techniques, styles, and the sheer joy of cooking. But perhaps her most personal influence came from someone much closer to home—her sister-in-law, Chef Dawn of Carla’s Girls. Watching her build a business from baking and cooking instilled a sense of possibility. It showed her that success in the culinary world wasn’t just something you watched on TV—it was something you could create for yourself.

Despite her passion and talent, Chef Phatty’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles. One of her biggest challenges has been visibility—not just in terms of exposure, but in overcoming the fear of being seen. For years, she wrestled with the anxiety of judgment, holding herself back from fully stepping into her potential. But growth came with a decision: enough is enough. Embracing visibility became an act of courage, one that allowed her to move forward with confidence. Alongside that, she faced another critical hurdle—financial literacy. Recognizing its importance, she took action by working with a credit advisor and pursuing education in business management. This commitment to learning and growth reflects a deeper understanding that talent alone isn’t enough; sustainability requires knowledge, strategy, and discipline.

Her accomplishments speak to both her skill and her perseverance. One standout moment includes winning a cash prize and having her signature jerk soul egg rolls featured in a cookbook through a mac and cheese competition with Real California Milk. It was a milestone that validated her creativity and introduced her work to a wider audience. But beyond awards and recognition, she takes pride in something even more significant—her personal growth. Overcoming fear, stepping into her identity, and committing to her vision are victories that define her journey just as much as any professional achievement.

At the heart of Chef Phatty’s work is a mission rooted in unity and inspiration. She believes food has the power to bridge gaps between cultures, to show people how similar we truly are despite our differences. Through unexpected flavor combinations and thoughtful presentation, she invites diners to experience something new while recognizing something familiar. Her message extends beyond the plate, especially for young brown girls who may feel limited by their circumstances. She wants them to see that their dreams are always within reach—that all it takes is faith, determination, and a willingness to believe in something bigger than their current reality.

Her motivation is deeply personal. Faith, family, and community are the driving forces behind everything she does. As a mother, she is committed to leaving a legacy that reflects hope, resilience, and possibility. Every dish she creates, every step she takes in her career, is part of a larger vision—one that extends beyond herself and into the lives of those she touches.

Right now, Chef Phatty is in a phase of transformation. She is actively rebranding, preparing to relaunch her platform and expand her reach. With plans to operate out of a shared kitchen in Orange, New Jersey, she is positioning herself to take on more clients and bring her food to a broader audience. Marketing and visibility are key focuses, as she works to ensure that her work reaches the people who need to experience it. This next chapter is about growth—strategic, intentional, and aligned with her long-term goals.

Looking ahead, her vision is both ambitious and community-driven. She aims to revive the diner experience in New Jersey, bringing it back in a fresh, exciting way that reflects modern tastes while honoring tradition. Beyond that, she is committed to giving back. Her plans to launch a nonprofit focused on re-entry programs, spirituality, and career development for minority communities highlight her dedication to impact. For Chef Phatty, success isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about creating opportunities for others and building something that lasts.

Key Takeaways:

• Chef Phatty is a Newark-based chef specializing in soul food fusion and custom catering.
• Her style, described as “Ethnic Chic” or “boujetto,” blends cultural authenticity with elevated presentation.
• Early influences include television chefs and hands-on learning from family.
• She has overcome challenges related to visibility and financial literacy through education and self-growth.
• Her jerk soul egg rolls earned recognition in a national cookbook competition.
• Her mission centers on unity, cultural appreciation, and inspiring underrepresented communities.
• She is currently rebranding and expanding her business with plans for greater reach and impact.

Chef Phatty’s story is a reminder that greatness often begins in the most unexpected places. From sneaking glimpses of cooking shows to building a brand rooted in culture and connection, her journey is defined by persistence, passion, and purpose. In a world where food can sometimes feel transactional, she brings it back to what it’s meant to be—a shared experience, a celebration of identity, and a powerful tool for bringing people together.