We’re looking forward to introducing you to Chélo Fanfan. Check out our conversation below.
Chélo, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding joy in personal growth and balance. I’ve made it a point to slow down and spend more time with the people who matter most to me. Whether it’s sharing a good meal, having meaningful conversations, or simply enjoying life outside of the grind, those moments bring me a sense of peace. Focusing on growth, while staying connected to loved ones, has really been my source of joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Chef Chelo, and I’m the proud owner of ImmaQulit Cuisine. I’ve been in the culinary world for over 14 years, working my way from kitchens to becoming a private chef, kitchen consultant, and culinary connoisseur for the Nobu group in West Palm Beach. Food has always been my way of storytelling I focus on gourmet-quality, farm-to-table cuisine, drawing influence from New American, Caribbean, Italian, Asian, and European flavors, and elevating them with my own rustic, creative touch.
Over the years, my journey has taken me to incredible places. I’ve worked alongside Michelin-level chefs to sharpen my craft, cooked for NFL and NBA stars, and even had the opportunity to prepare dishes for Kodak Black, with my food featured in one of his music videos. I also ventured into private catering and later expanded into the mobile food truck business, which gave me the chance to connect directly with my community through food.
What makes ImmaQulit Cuisine special is the balance of sophistication and soul. It’s about more than just great flavors it’s about creating experiences that people remember long after the meal is done. My focus on farm-to-table cooking ensures that every dish highlights fresh, quality ingredients while supporting local growers. Now, I’m working toward opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant, where I can fully showcase my vision and bring people together over elevated, unforgettable cuisine.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
The moment I became a father completely reshaped how I see the world. Everything shifted life was no longer just about me, it became about my two boys. Fatherhood gave me a new sense of responsibility and purpose. It taught me patience, sacrifice, and what it truly means to lead by example. My perspective on success changed too; it’s not just about chasing goals for myself, but about building a legacy, creating stability, and showing my sons through my actions that anything is possible with hard work and passion. They’re my biggest motivation and the reason I keep striving to elevate in every area of my life.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that a lot of the things we think are important really aren’t. Don’t pour so much energy into friendships or people who aren’t truly invested in you. Protect your time, protect your peace, and focus on building yourself first — the right people will align with you along the way
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
The cultural value I protect at all costs is respect for family, for others, and for myself. No matter what I achieve or where I go, I carry that with me. In my culture, family and community are everything, and respect is the foundation. It shows up in the way I raise my kids, the way I treat people in and out of the kitchen, and the way I approach my craft. Without respect, nothing truly lasts
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m in the kitchen creating it’s my therapy and my sanctuary. Cooking allows me to block out the noise and be fully in the moment, turning raw ingredients into something that brings people joy. Outside of the kitchen, I find peace in spending time with my boys and the people who matter most to me. I’m also very outdoorsy, so being in the wilderness, surrounded by nature, grounds me in a way nothing else can. Whether I’m cooking, laughing with loved ones, or just soaking in the outdoors, those are the moments where I feel completely at ease.
Image Credits
Nation Thervil as Photographer
