We had the good fortune of connecting with Kassah Chef King Kas Kantiok and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kassah Chef King Kas, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
My business journey has taught me the true value of perseverance. While chasing my entrepreneurial dreams, I initially underestimated the importance of startup capital and the realities of running a business. After facing setbacks, particularly when transitioning to a 9-to-5 job to stay afloat, I struggled to maintain motivation. However, this initial discouragement with the corporate world turned into a crucial lesson in resilience. I’ve learned that it’s perfectly okay to work a corporate job while nurturing your entrepreneurial aspirations on the side until your business becomes your primary source of income. Over time, I’ve embraced new opportunities and the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone because you never know where it may lead. If I had the opportunity to start over, I would apply the lessons I’ve learned to do things a bit differently. I’m proud of the valuable experiences I’ve gained and truly appreciate the lessons along the way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am passionate about food and wellness, and I express this through my work as a Culinary Artist, Private Chef and Nutrition Coach. I am grateful for the diverse talents God has blessed me with. Over 24 years ago, back in Nigeria, my mother’s kitchen was my first culinary classroom. Those early experiences were the seeds that eventually blossomed into Abinci House here in California. Watching my mother cook, has shaped my unique approach to food and nutrition. I find inspiration in blending my Nigerian culture with culinary influences from around the world, creating dishes that offer an unforgettable fusion experience.

What sets me apart is my commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences, coupled with a unique and creative approach to my work. Whether I’m guiding you through a culinary masterpiece or discussing health and wellness strategies, I prioritize your time and ensure every interaction is valuable and enriching. I strive to provide every individual I interact with a five-star experience, ensuring they feel valued and appreciated.

I’m most proud of my resilience. I’ve encountered numerous challenges along the way, but I’ve learned to adapt and overcome. This resilience has been invaluable in my personal and professional development.I believe that true greatness is forged in the face of adversity, and how we overcome these challenges defines us. I’m excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead.

I got to where I am today by working on my craft at a young age through trial and error, I didn’t set my sights on creating culinary experiences or creating meal plans for people, it was something I grew to enjoy. Along the way, I had to take breaks to reset, it gave me a moment of clarity on the path I am supposed to travel. I got to this point in my life by trying something new to see what comes from it. From working as an engineering intern, to working with underserved communities, I believe my purpose is to create masterful dishes and educate my community on the importance of health and wellness and to be a beacon of hope is my calling. This journey has presented its challenges, and there have been moments of doubt. However, I believe that these experiences have been invaluable in my personal and professional growth. I am confident that the rewards of pursuing this path will ultimately outweigh the challenges.

My entrepreneurial journey, while challenging, provided invaluable lessons. This experience reinforced the understanding that entrepreneurship requires dedication and perseverance. While my initial venture into meal prepping as a business in 2013-2014 presented some difficulties, it ultimately instilled in me a deep sense of purpose to serve others through my passion for food. Although I faced setbacks that temporarily dampened my enthusiasm for cooking, I have since identified new avenues for fulfilling my passion, such as hosting small private events, creating meal plans, nutrition workshops and writing cookbooks. I am now exploring these avenues with renewed enthusiasm.. While I stepped back to reassess, I continued honing my skills behind the scenes. I recognize that the market has evolved, but I am confident that my unique approach and refined skills will enable me to succeed in this evolving landscape. It’s humbling to see that the brand I built continues to resonate with so many people. While I may have taken a step back, I am proud of the impact that was made. I am now exploring opportunities that came to light during my break and I look forward to the next chapter on this journey.

This is a period of exploration and growth for me. While I am still discerning my next steps, I am rebranding myself as a culinary artist/nutrition coach and pursuing select private engagements. I am passionate about sharing my love of healthy cooking with others. Two years ago, I published a vegan cookbook available on Amazon. Now, I’m combining my culinary skills with nutrition coaching to empower individuals on their health journeys. I invite you to explore my cookbook and consider working with me to achieve your wellness goals.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
After we leave the airport, we will grab a bite at In-N-Out or explore some other local gems.

We will spend some time in Glendora, my former hometown. We will visit the iconic Donut Man, enjoy a scenic drive up Glendora Mountain Road and hike on one of the trails to burn off the sugar we just consumed.

Fitness is important to me, so I’m looking forward to a morning workout at the gym followed by a relaxing sauna session to burn more calories. I will host a small gathering at my place, where I can cook and we can catch up with friends.

If they are up for an adventure, we can explore Los Angeles, visiting iconic places like LACMA, Venice Beach, and The Grove. We could also spend a day in Old Town Pasadena, where I grew up, and enjoy a meal at La Grande Orange and then enjoy the nightlife afterwards.

For another day trip, we will head to Malibu for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway and enjoy the rest of the day at the beach.

I believe in making the most of our time together, so we will have a mix of relaxation, exploration, and good company.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank God for always providing for me in times of trials and tribulations, knowing God is always there for me, keeps my faith strong. I would like to thank my parents without them I would not be here today. Their support over the years, pushed me through difficult times. My parents James and Assibi are my backbone, everything I do is to make sure they have everything they need in their golden years. My journey has not always followed the anticipated path, despite having earned degrees in Civil Engineering and a Masters in Business Administration. While I’ve encountered challenges along the way, I am grateful for the unwavering support of my parents throughout this process. Their encouragement has been instrumental in my continued progress.

I would like to thank my siblings (Kazah, Keziah, Kyangtuk), for their support, for always being there for me when I need them to give me a helping hand. They remind me of what’s important, keeping me aligned with my goals. My nieces (Zariah, Londyn, Leylani, Luna, Aaliyah) and nephews (Kenyon, Joshua, Josiah), keep me energized and youthful. I enjoy showing them the unlimited possibilities of a focused mind, as much as they inspire me. I would like to thank my friends and extended family for always lending a hand whenever I need support, you know who you are, I appreciate you. I am thankful to Jai_Nice for both the opportunity to cook for her, despite her own remarkable culinary skills and also grateful for her support in helping me expand my social media presence. This community has been there for me and I would not be the person I am today without them. In times of chaos I can lean on them to get me through any situation. I love you all and I appreciate the support, I hope you all continue to be by side throughout my journey.

If you are reading this, keep God first and have faith through the ups and downs, he will see you through.

Shoutout to favorite bible verse:

Ecclesiastes 12:1: Remember your creator in the days of your youth, before the days trouble and the years approach when you will say, I find no pleasure in them.

Instagram: @chefkingkas and @abincihouse

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABINICIHOUSE

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kingkas24

Other: Tik Tok @chefkingkas
Snapchat @chefkingkas
https://www.amazon.com/ABINCI-HOUSE-Vegan-Cookbook-Cookbooks/dp/B0BMZF1XPM

Image Credits
Corrie H.
Samath
Sarah

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.