I AM HER
Bonjour,
I'm Karen and I'm thrilled to welcome you to my culinary haven.
Growing up in Paris, the gastronomic capital of France, this ignited a lifelong love affair with the culinary arts that would shape the course of my career.
At 23, I made the bold decision to chase my dreams as creative and moved to the bright lights of New York City. While pursuing my aspirations of becoming an actress, I supported myself as a server in the most renowned restaurants which honed my skills and developed an eye for detail, learning from the masters of hospitality. As a Black French woman, I'm incredibly proud to be a trailblazer, bringing a fresh voice and diverse background to the world of food criticism. So I’ve decided to take my culinary expertise to the next level, sharing my insights and guiding others on their own epicurean journeys.
My origins ?
France & cameroon
I was blessed with the best of both worlds - the vibrant and rich cultural heritage of my Cameroonian roots, blended harmoniously with the gastronomic wonders of French culinary traditions.
My parents, who immigrated to France, instilled in me a deep appreciation of the culinary arts from an early age. I can still vividly recall the intoxicating aromas of Ndolé, my mother's favorite Cameroonian dish, mingling with the buttery croissants I tasted in any street bakery.
This diverse upbringing cultivated an incredibly versatile palate and a boundless curiosity about the world of food.
maiN hobby ? Fashion
Fashion has always been another of my passions. Especially as I come from a region where style and self-expression are celebrated. I've always loved dressing up and using my wardrobe as a creative outlet. I'm convinced that the way you present yourself to the world is a reflection of your personality and can be a powerful tool for making a lasting impression.
Whether it's an elegant pencil dress or a head-turning suit, I take great pride in tailoring my outfits to the occasion.
an experience lover
As a child my palate was constantly challenged and expanded. My parents made sure to preserve the rich, aromatic dishes of their homeland, filling my senses with the warmth of spices, the richness of stews, and bright, herbaceous notes of West African cuisine. Simultaneously, my French upbringing introduced me to the elegance and precision of Gallic gastronomy.
As you grew older, that culinary curiosity and my thirst for knowledge only intensified. I began seeking out new restaurants, meticulously studying the nuances of grape varietals and the art of pairing. Constantly pushing the boundaries of my palate and challenging myself to explore flavors I've never encountered before. Whether it was the fiery Cameroonian pepper soup or the delicate French soufflé, I approached each dish with the reverence of a scholar and the excitement of a child on Christmas morning.
Through my website, I'll be your personal guide, unearthing the best city's best-kept secret meals, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses, and helping you navigate the dynamic world of haute cuisine. Whether you're a discerning foodie or simply eager to expand your palate.