The Emerging Faces Issue

Ashantae Green is the owner and farmer at Green Legacy Farm.

Raise your hand if you’ve worked in the food or beverage industry. You can’t see me, but my hand is in the air. In fact, many of us have waited tables, tended bar, washed dishes or held some job in the food and drink industry, according to a recent study that indicates the food sector is the largest employer in the U.S. behind the federal government. That should come as no surprise when one considers the food and beverage industry at large.

Food permeates all aspect of our lives, and there is a need for workers to support every connection we have to what we eat and drink. That translates to a need for farmers, fishers, grocery store workers, bartenders, butchers, bakers, baristas, cooks, farmers’ market managers and many more jobs in the industry. (Don’t forget food writers – we serve an important role too!)

The food sector offers a buffet of career choices beyond traditional restaurant jobs. Despite the recent pandemic, or perhaps because of it, opportunities exist for those passionate about pursuing careers in food and drink to claim a seat at the table, with plenty of room for growth and innovation. The stories in our Emerging Faces issue highlight local entrepreneurs creating new ways to engage in our community through hospitality. Learn about four different businesses who are customizing their recipe for success, adapting as they face new challenges and prospects. Find out how one local farmer’s goal to provide access to fresh, healthy food takes her from the field to the storefront. Read our chat with Francois Castro about taking over as executive chef at Black Sheep restaurant. He even shared his recipe for Swiss chard farçous, a delicious dish to try at home. Find out how plants, coffee and community grow together in Brooklyn, Jamaican flavors found a home in San Marco and St. Augustine bakers are collaborating to make the world a butter place. And in case you were wondering what’s happening in Palatka, be sure to check out our piece on exciting things brewing at the old Coca-Cola plant there.

The Emerging Faces issue is a celebration of those in our food community who start with something they’re passionate about and work to make it even better. I hope these stories encourage you to explore the various options creating a vibrant food scene in our region. Be sure to tag us in social media @edibleneflorida or #edibleneflorida with your discoveries.

Lauren Titus, Editor

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STORIES FROM THE EMERGING FACES ISSUE