Two-time James Beard Award-winning chef, Netflix star and restaurateur conquers it all. Austin has embraced her Savannah-centered flavors wholeheartedly. @mashamabailey

PHOTO BY CASSANDRA KLEPAC

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO COME COOK IN THE AUSTIN MARKET?

Austin has a great music scene, great outdoor spaces, and UT. All of those things had a heavy influence on us coming to Austin. Austin’s weird and quirky, just like Savannah. We thought it would be a great city to showcase what we do.

DID YOU FEEL THERE WAS A VOID IN THE CULINARY INDUSTRY?

No. I don’t feel like there is a void, but I do think we have something to offer and add, which is our take on Port City Southern-style cuisine.

HOW DO YOU CONTINUE TO SHOW YOUR ROOTS IN YOUR COOKING?

Through farm-to-table ingredients. I really like cooking seasonally and being inspired by dishes that I grew up with.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BE A CHEF?

My parents. When I came home from college, I made dinner, and my mom thought it was delicious and encouraged me to pursue cooking. I didn’t take her advice until five years afterward.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU IN YOUR CULINARY CAREER?

Paris. We’re going overseas, baby! We are going to Paris, and we’re going to highlight the black and southern food perspective there, and we’re very excited.