Great food creates community.

We are delighted to welcome three Shared Kitchen members and recent graduates of the Food Incubator program offered by Hartford reSET in conjunction with Hands On Hartford thanks to support from the City of Hartford.  It is an honor to showcase these chefs and their cultures.  We hope you will come and support these emerging food businesses which represent the vibrant Hartford food scene so well.

Mimi Cheung, Black Sesame Bakery – A baker whose journey began in the most unexpected of times: the 2020 pandemic shutdown. What started as a way to pass the time quickly turned into a full-blown passion, fueled by a delightful swirl of influences: binge-watching The Great British Bake Off, remote bake-offs with her sister and niece, and baking her first-ever cake for her husband’s birthday. Mimi’s flavors are as layered as her cakes, drawing from her Asian, Latin, and American roots — a little less sweet, a little unexpected, and always made with heart. While cakes and cupcakes are her favorite canvas, she’s also a proud sourdough parent to Matilda, her now five-year-old starter that’s been feeding her bread obsession. Ironically, Mimi doesn’t even like buttercream… but that doesn’t stop her from turning it into flowers, ruffles, and all kinds of joyful decorations. For her, baking isn’t just about flavor — it’s about creating something beautiful and meaningful.

Daneka Arroyo, Soulvadorian – With a feature in CT Insider and a growing list of clients across Connecticut, ranging from corporate offices to sports teams, weddings, and private gatherings, chef Daneka Arroyo has built Soulvadorian into a beloved catering brand known for its bold, flavor-forward menus blending soul food and Latin cuisine. A self-taught chef born and raised in Maryland, Daneka draws inspiration from her African American and Salvadoran heritage, along with the Puerto Rican traditions she’s embraced through her husband and his family. Her cooking reflects a deep connection to home and culture, proudly symbolized by the crab in her logo as a nod to where it all began. Daneka’s ability to fuse tradition, comfort, and care into every plate hasmade her one of the most exciting chefs to watch in Connecticut’s growing food scene.

“To me, food is a love language, a way to nourish, care, and give back. Gather55 creates more than just meals; they provide access and essential support to those who need it most. I’m honored to contribute as a Guest Chef and be part of a mission rooted in compassion and community care.”

Izolde Miranda, Samba Cuisine – Born and raised with a love for a vibrant flavor. I am a chef and Owner of a Brazilian and Spanish food truck, blending Afro Brazilian and Spanish culinary traditions. Inspired by my family’s rich cultural heritage. I create dishes that fuse bold spices, fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques. My menu features signature creations like Moqueca de peixe, Plantain nhoque with shrimp sauce, showcasing the diverse flavors of Brazil and Latin cuisine. When I’m not cooking, I’m often drawing inspiration from my love ones, including my husband and son with my recipes soon to be featured at Gather 55 for a month.

“I am thrilled to volunteer with Gather 55 as they feature my food for a month. I am passionate about sharing my culinary creations and love for Afro Brazilian and Spanish cuisine with the community. This opportunity allows me to connect with foodies and showcase my dishes and give back to the community that supports my Food Truck.”