Antionette Shakir has been and Entrepreneur since 2011. She Owns/Operate Simply Elegant and More, LLC. A popular Soul and Caribbean Food Restaurant and Child Nutrition Caterer in Atlanta, GA byway of Stone Mountain, GA. She has over 25 years in the Food Service Industry. She specializes in Elegant display of her food and delicious meals, especially her Halal Turkey Wings w/ Made from Scratch Corn Muffin. She is loved for her giving to the community that she lives and works in. She’s also known for her Loved of entrepreneurship and hard work. Her Facebook page Simply Elegant and More, LLC and her web site is simplyelegantandmore.com Stay tune as she re-open Restaurant (Simply’s Place) in May 2024 as a great weekend spot for Breakfast and Lunch in Stone Mountain, GA.

What inspired your journey into entrepreneurship, specifically the food service industry?

As far back as I can remember growing up in South Carolina I observed my father living an exemplary life as a hard worker and entrepreneur. His work ethic was instilled within me and to this day he’s an entrepreneur at heart in action. I’m creative in thought and I believe there’s nothing better than having your own and working for yourself. I’ve simply applied my passion for food and serving others (especially my surrounding communities and our youth) in my business. 

What inspired you to open Simply Elegant and More, LLC, and what sets your restaurant apart from others in Atlanta? 

After dining at various (and many) restaurants from my childhood up until I launched Simply Elegant and More, LLC, I noticed that something was missing and I felt that I could add something different and special to the dining and overall eating experience.  

I add value to meals by purchasing, preparing, cooking, and serving with careful thought, care, and love. It’s a “personal” thing at Simply Elegant and More, LLC.  

With over 25 years of experience in the food service industry, what valuable lessons have you learned along the way? 

I’ve learned a lot and I continue to learn daily. It’s not just about the food or the food industry. In addition, it’s about people. Learning about people from those whom I come in contact with outside the restaurant, to my staff, to each patron it’s learning lifelong lessons from them as well.

 Your specialty dish, the Halal Turkey Wings with Made from Scratch Corn Muffin, has gained quite a reputation. What led to the creation of this dish, and what do you believe makes it so beloved by your customers?

Turkey wings in general are a favorite of many. Especially in South Carolina. The Halal part is a reflection of my beliefs and convictions as a Muslimah. I’ve combined all that with my secret ingredients and way of preparation to make my Halal Turkey Wings a favorite of many!

 Community involvement seems to be a significant aspect of your business. Can you share some examples of how you give back to the community through your restaurant?

For many years standing I’ve participated in giving and giving back to the community through feeding the poor and the homeless. I’ve collaborated with countless organizations and groups in feeding through various community events, and I’m often called upon to cater various events because my passion for touching the lives of my community through food and service is what I try to always exhibit.

 You’re known for your dedication to entrepreneurship and hard work. How do these values influence your approach to running your restaurant and catering business?

For me, entrepreneurship is not only about money. It’s about taking the passion I have for food and using my ideas to share that passion with the world. I strongly believe that hard work is essential to being successful in anything that one does.

 Could you share more on the concept behind Simply’s Place, your upcoming restaurant re-opening in Stone Mountain, GA?

What can customers expect from this new venture? Simply Elegant And More Place will still be a fantastic place to be served eat and to eat wonderful food. It’s about the ‘experience’ and I hope to add to that experience with a few changes (and additions) to the menu and the overall environment.

 How do you incorporate elegance into the presentation of your food, and why do you believe it’s important in the dining experience?

Elegance is what I desire from my clothing, my home, and as much as affordable and possible in my life in general. One does not have to be rich or purchase expensive things to experience elegance. I’m expressing this at my restaurant.

 In what ways do you stay connected with your customers and community through social media and your website?

Again, the community is important to me. I can still be contacted via my website (www.simplyelegantandmore.com) but I’ve added Facebook and Instagram to that platform to be accessible for ordering, catering, and questions from the community, and to keep them updated on what’s current and happening with us.

 What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the food service industry, especially in today’s competitive market?

Be SURE that this is what you want to do. If you have a genuine passion for food and this industry allow that to be your driving force – especially for the challenges ahead.

 What is your go to favorite dish to fix?

Breakfast with eggs. That’s my personal favorite! 

What is a great family meal that is easy to prepare?

Cajun-style chicken, peas and rice, and plantains. 

Your favorite ingredients that we can find by your side at all times in the kitchen?

Cajun spices. 

Connect on Social Media:

Facebook: Simply elegant and more Place 

                     Simply Elegant and More 

Instagram Simply Elegant and More Place