We had the good fortune of connecting with Daniella Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daniella, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
That’s a great question! I believe the decision to keep going or to pivot is incredibly nuanced, especially in a high-pressure environment like the culinary industry.

First, I assess my goals and the original vision I had for the project. If those goals still resonate and feel achievable, that often encourages me to push forward.

Next, I evaluate the progress I’ve made so far. Celebrating small milestones can provide motivation and remind me of how far I’ve come, which fuels my commitment to continue.

I also look at the challenges I’m facing. If they’re temporary setbacks, like supply issues or a difficult recipe, I’m more inclined to persevere. However, if I find that the obstacles are more fundamental, I consider whether it might be time to pivot.

Feedback is crucial, too. I often reach out to mentors or peers who can provide a fresh perspective. Their insights might illuminate paths I hadn’t considered, making the decision clearer.

Lastly, I think it’s important to stay connected to my passion. If I feel excitement and enthusiasm about the project, it’s often a sign that I should keep going. Conversely, if that passion fades, I might explore alternative directions that reignite my enthusiasm.

Ultimately, I believe in balancing resilience with adaptability. It’s about making informed choices while remaining open to new opportunities.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Cooking, for me, is not just a profession; it’s a deep-seated passion that I’ve inherited from my family of great cooks. Growing up, I was inspired by the warmth of our kitchen, where aromas danced in the air and laughter filled the space. This rich heritage has shaped my culinary identity and instilled in me a profound appreciation for authentic flavors and traditions.

What sets me apart is my commitment to blending classic techniques with innovative twists. I believe in the power of storytelling through food. Each dish I create carries a piece of my family history and reflects my personal journey. I’m particularly proud of my ability to evoke nostalgia and comfort in my dishes, making them not just meals, but memorable experiences.

Getting to where I am today was not easy. There were countless late nights, challenging shifts, and moments of self-doubt. I faced tough competition and had to constantly refine my skills. However, I overcame these challenges by embracing a growth mindset. Each obstacle became an opportunity for learning. I leaned on the support of mentors and my family, who reminded me of my passion and purpose.

Along the way, I learned the importance of resilience, creativity, and the value of community. Collaboration and connection in the culinary world can lead to beautiful things, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to work alongside talented individuals.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that we’re all about heart and authenticity. My culinary journey is deeply rooted in love – love for cooking, for family traditions, and for the connections that food creates. I strive to share that love with others through every dish I serve, inviting them to experience the joy that food can bring.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Arrival in LA
– **Lunch:** Start with a hearty meal at **Uovo** for some of the best homemade pasta in the city.
– **Evening:** Head to **Griffith Observatory**. Explore the exhibits and end the day with breathtaking views of the city skyline at sunset.
– **Dinner:** Grab dinner at a nearby spot like **Little Dom’s**, enjoying their Italian-American comfort dishes.

Day 2: Classic LA Experience
– **Morning:** Visit the iconic **Hollywood Walk of Fame** and snap some photos.
– **Lunch:** Try some classic American fare at **Mel’s Drive-In** for that nostalgic diner vibe.
– **Evening:** Experience a movie at a classic drive-in theater like the **Cinefamily Drive-In** for a retro experience.

Day 3: Adventure in Orange County
– **Morning:** Drive to **Orange County** and spend the day at **Disneyland**. Enjoy the rides, attractions, and magical atmosphere!
– **Lunch:** Eat in the park at one of the themed dining spots.
– **Evening:** After Disneyland, relax with some delicious **Vietnamese food** at **Pho 79** in Westminster; it’s a local favorite.

Day 4: Beach Day
– **Morning:** Head to **Santa Monica Beach** for some sun and sand. Stroll along the pier.
– **Lunch:** Grab a bite at **The Lobster** with ocean views.
– **Afternoon:** Explore the shops and cafes at the **Third Street Promenade**.
– **Evening:** Return for a casual dinner at **Taco Truck** for some of the best tacos in town. The food truck’s variety might just blow your taste buds away!

Day 5: Arts & Culture
– **Morning:** Visit the **Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)** to immerse yourself in art.
– **Lunch:** Try **Kogi BBQ Taco Truck** for a fusion experience of Korean BBQ and tacos.
– **Afternoon:** Explore **The Getty Center** for stunning art and gardens.
– **Evening:** Dine at **Bestia**, a trendy Italian spot in the Arts District (reservations a must!).

Day 6: Exploring Neighborhoods
– **Morning:** Check out the funky murals in **Downtown LA** and enjoy brunch at **Eggslut** in Grand Central Market.
– **Afternoon:** Visit the **Hollywood Bowl** for some live music or explore the vibrant atmosphere of **Venice Beach**.
– **Dinner:** End with a casual meal at **La Taquiza**, known for their authentic tacos.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect
– **Morning:** Take it easy with a brunch at the chic **Griddle Cafe** known for enormous pancakes.
– **Afternoon:** Relax and reflect at **Runyon Canyon**, the perfect place for a leisurely hike and more city views.
– **Farewell Dinner:** For your last night, enjoy a wonderful dinner at **République**, a beautiful space offering French-inspired cuisine.

Each day is filled with a mix of iconic experiences, amazing food, and fun adventures, reflecting what makes LA exciting! However I don’t find LA to be a culinary destination it has great gems, sprinkled throughout I think most people would enjoy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my sister. Her unwavering encouragement and enthusiasm have been a constant source of motivation throughout my culinary journey. She believes in me even when I have doubts, and her support reminds me of the importance of family in pursuing my passions. Her encouragement has been instrumental in my growth as a chef, and I truly couldn’t have come this far without her! Thank you for always being my cheerleader!

Website: https://Chefdaniella.con

Instagram: Chefdaniella

Image Credits
N/a

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.