Cleveland Chefs Celebrate Black History Month

Local chefs share how food and heritage intersect in their culinary work.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In celebration of Black History Month 2026, Cleveland.com interviewed several local Black chefs about how their cultural heritage and culinary traditions intersect in their work. The chefs discussed the importance of preserving and sharing their family recipes, using food as a way to connect with their roots, and the significance of Black representation in the city's thriving food scene.

Why it matters

This story highlights how food can be a powerful medium for celebrating and preserving Black culture and history. The featured chefs are using their platforms to share their personal stories and culinary expertise, fostering greater appreciation for the rich diversity of Cleveland's food community.

The details

The chefs interviewed for the story come from a variety of backgrounds and culinary specialties, but they all spoke about the deep connection between the food they prepare and their cultural heritage. Several discussed how they learned traditional recipes from their grandparents and parents, and now incorporate those flavors and techniques into their own menus. Others talked about using food as a way to educate customers about important aspects of Black history and traditions.

  • The interviews were conducted in February 2026 to coincide with Black History Month.

The players

Jamika Pessoa

A chef and restaurateur who owns a popular soul food restaurant in Cleveland's Hough neighborhood.

Marcus Samuelsson

An acclaimed chef and author who opened a new restaurant in downtown Cleveland in 2025.

Afi Yeboa

A chef and caterer who specializes in West African cuisine and hosts regular pop-up events around the city.

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What they’re saying

“Food is such an important part of my heritage and culture. When I cook, I'm not just nourishing people's bodies, I'm also nourishing their souls and connecting them to something deeper.”

— Jamika Pessoa, Chef and Restaurateur (Cleveland.com)

“As a Black chef, it's my responsibility to shine a light on the incredible diversity and richness of African and African-American cuisine. This is my way of honoring my ancestors and sharing their stories.”

— Marcus Samuelsson, Chef and Author (Cleveland.com)

What’s next

The chefs plan to collaborate on a special Black History Month dinner event featuring dishes that celebrate the culinary traditions of the African diaspora.

The takeaway

This story underscores the vital role that chefs of color play in preserving and elevating the cultural significance of food, fostering greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of Cleveland's food community.