Evelyn’s Midtown Kitchen
Located in Detroit and owned by Chef Evelyn Stokes, Evelyn’s Midtown Kitchen offers a variety of cooking classes designed to empower individuals and communities. Chef Evelyn's mission is to promote healthy eating, cultural awareness, and team collaboration while fostering lifelong culinary skills in a fun, inclusive environment. Find more information at emkculinary.com
Why and how did you decide to start a food business?
For me, work must mean something. Owning a business requires so much from you that I believe it must be tied to purpose and impact. I started Evelyn’s Midtown Kitchen because I wanted to do meaningful work that not only fulfilled me, but also created an impact in the world.
How long have you been in business?
I’ve been working in food for over 15 years, sometimes full-time, sometimes part-time, but I’ve been a tenant in the incubator kitchen at Eastern Market for almost two years now!
How has owning a business changed now from when you first started?
When I first started, there were very few resources. I had to do a lot of figuring things out on my own. Now, Detroit has such a strong, structured support system for small businesses. There are so many programs, educational opportunities, and encouragement along the way, and I think that is what makes Detroit so unique. As a multigenerational Black female business owner, I feel proud and supported in my city.
Can you tell us about your signature items?
Our signature is really our variety of hands-on cooking classes and the unique culinary experience we provide. We teach international cuisines—from French, Italian, and Greek, to Thai, Chinese, Japanese, as well as baking, pastry, and pasta from scratch. The “sky’s the limit” with what we offer. But the heart of it is that everyone, youth, couples, families, individuals feels welcome, learns practical hands-on cooking techniques, connects with others, and of course, eat what they make.
How has Eastern Market’s programming and incubator kitchen impacted your growth?
It’s been absolutely paramount. Shed 5 has provided me with access to be licensed and insured out of a commercial kitchen. It’s a system that works! Beyond that, Eastern Market offers programming like In the Business of Food which offers industry related education, and an open, collaborative environment with other food businesses. I’ve seen my own growth and watched peers hit milestones during my time at Eastern Market. It’s inspiring, educational, and has truly been a game-changer for me.
What advice do you have for future food business entrepreneurs?
Remain steadfast in your vision and purpose. You’ll have to explain your business over and over, and not everyone will understand or even believe in it. But your vision is yours, it’s unique because it was designed for you, born within you. Accept that you’re always selling your business, but don’t let doubt from others distract you. Your vision is your heart, and it’s your job to bring it to life.
IG: evelynsmidtownkitchen_
FB: EMKCulinary
Web: https://www.emkculinary.com/
Photos by Chuk Nowak https://www.chuknowak.com/