We are Finalists! Midwest Dairy Pitch Contest

Celebrating a Milestone: Esculent Eats Big Win!

 Chef Joanna, the visionary founder of Esculent Eats, recently had the opportunity to pitch her innovative West African pastries and desserts for a chance to win private kitchen space at The Hatchery—one of Chicago’s fastest-growing food and beverage incubators, sponsored by Midwest Dairy.

The pitch contest, held on May 30th, 2024, was hosted by Maggie Leach, The Hatchery’s incubator manager, alongside The Hatchery team. Five entrepreneurs from different food and beverage categories competed in the finals, each vying for the coveted prize of rent-free private kitchen space, cash prizes for R&D, and comprehensive support from The Hatchery.

Your Passport to African Flavor

Esculent Eats was founded to bridge the gap in the availability of authentic West African cuisine in the USA. “Food is a huge part of African culture; it brings people together. We aim to bring people together with our products, sharing the joy of community—whether it’s a special gift for a loved one, a treat for coworkers, or a grab-and-go snack at retail stores,” says Chef Joanna.

As the first-ever West African dessert business in the USA, Esculent Eats is breaking new ground. We’ve created a unique dessert category by incorporating innovative dairy flavor options into our offerings, adding a modern twist to traditional treats that appeal to consumers seeking new and exciting flavors.

America’s First Ever West African Dessert Café?

During the contest, business owners presented their dairy-infused products to a panel of judges, who provided feedback to ensure the products were retail-ready. Chef Joanna’s passion for blending traditional West African flavors with modern culinary techniques captivated the judges, securing our place at The Hatchery. This win not only grants us state-of-the-art kitchen space but also propels us closer to our mission of making African flavors a staple in every home.

When asked by one of the judges about her future plans, Chef Joanna revealed her ambition to transform Esculent Eats into a stand-alone dessert café, offering a unique and authentic experience while carrying her family’s legacy to the global marketplace.

Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this exciting new chapter. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to enjoy even more of your favorite treats from Esculent Eats!