We recently had the chance to connect with Aria Reid and have shared our conversation below.
Aria, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Honestly? I think a lot of people secretly struggle with self-identity. We live in this fast, hyper-curated world where everyone’s scrolling, comparing, and low-key rushing to be someone they’re not. It’s like everybody’s in a race to keep up, instead of slowing down to figure out who they actually are. And the wild part is, nobody really wants to admit it — because admitting it feels like you’re ‘behind.’ But the truth is, the real flex is owning your lane, not copying someone else’s
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Absolutely! I’m Aria, a chef and the creative force behind Kitchen Kartel. I like to say we’re not just serving food — we’re serving an experience. My background runs from line cook to catering head chef, and now entrepreneur, so I’ve touched every corner of the kitchen hustle. What makes Kitchen Kartel special is that it’s more than a brand, it’s a movement — we bring chefs, bartenders, and bakers together under one roof to create exciting, unforgettable moments, whether it’s through our catering, our supper clubs, or our meal subscription service, Fresh Load.
My story is really about turning passion into purpose. I built Kitchen Kartel from the ground up with the vision of mixing culture, creativity, and community — while still keeping it trendy and a little rebellious. Right now, I’m working on expanding our edible product line with dispensary collaborations, rolling out new subscription options for Fresh Load, and continuing to grow our event experiences. Basically, I’m all about pushing the limits of what food can be, while still keeping it fun, approachable, and just a little bit sassy.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Without question, the relationship that shaped me most is the one I have with my grandma and my mom. My granny was the firecracker — she taught me how to stand up for myself, not take any mess from anybody, and to be, as she always said, ‘industrious.’ My mom gave me the softer version of that same lesson — reminding me that strength doesn’t always have to be loud, sometimes it’s in patience, compassion, and grace. Together, they’re the blueprint for who I am. They’ve always given me the freedom to be myself, cheered me on through every wild idea, and loved me just the same whether I was right or wrong. Honestly, they’re the reason I carry myself the way I do today.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me something success never could: you’ve got to hit rock bottom to really understand what it means to rise. Struggle humbles you, it sharpens you, and it makes you hungry in a way comfort never will. When you’ve felt the lowest lows, you carry a fire inside that says, ‘I’m never going back there.’ That kind of grit can’t be faked — and once you’ve lived it, the only direction left is up.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
If you ask my friends, they’ll tell you straight up: what matters most to me is the work. They joke that I never stop — and honestly, they’re not wrong. To know me is to know I’m always putting that work in, whether I’m glued to my laptop sending emails, on the phone locking in clients, in a meeting making moves, or in the kitchen bringing ideas to life. I’m always getting to it, one way or another. Work isn’t just what I do, it’s how I show up for myself, my family, and my vision.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
HELL YEA! Praise or no praise, I’m still giving my best — and honestly, knowing nobody’s watching would probably fuel me even more. Because at the end of the day, the work I put out is a reflection of me, and I don’t do halfway. External validation is cool, but it’s not what drives me. The real win is proving to myself that I showed up and gave it everything, clap or no clap.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kitchenkartelhq.com
- Instagram: @kitchenkartelhq
