Today we’d like to introduce you to Eleni (Helen) Markatos.
Hi Eleni (Helen), it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My husband and I live in the Pigtown neighborhood of Baltimore City with our son. After years for working in corporate America I wanted to take a risk and open my own business. I admire the people around me, including my husband, who take the risk to go out on their own and follow their dreams. My husband and I also want to set an example for our son, to show him that anything is possible when you’re doing what you love.
I have always had a love for food but could not always cook. My father used to joke that I couldn’t even boil water lol. But I had the love for the connection sharing a meal can create between people. A food trailer was an interim possibility with the goal of a brick-and-mortar location later. I purchased my silver food trailer to tow behind my Jeep. And my menu focused in food I personally loved and would eat, such as smash burgers, tacos, banana pudding &more.
I was surprised at how quickly my brand become an icon in the neighborhood and when people started calling me as the “Red-Headed Puddin’ Lady.” Within a short period of time of being open I won awards for chili cookoffs, nominated for best smash burger in Baltimore for WBALTV YouTube series, won awards for Dessert Wars in Baltimore and advanced to the nationals in Charlotte, competed in Plate It Baltimore and took home the win for my episode. The next step in this amazing call Joni is now opening up a brick and mortar in Pigtown Baltimore by the Ravens Stadium and Orioles Park.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Smooth ride?! Lol. Some days may feel like it but most days haven’t lol. Difficulty in finding constant help while not jeopardizing, great customer service and the consistency quality of the menu items. Struggling with me thinking I can do it all when I find myself spreading myself thin. My regular customers have become more like family at this point and they know exactly what separates Taste from the other spots in Baltimore.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I pride myself and my business on being efficient, constant, providing great customer service and the consistency in quality of the menu items. My regular customers have become more like family at this point and they know exactly what separates Taste from the other spots in Baltimore. I have people coming from Delaware and beyond looking to try my food. That genuinely makes my heart smile and is confirmation that I am doing something right!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Cant think off hand
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @taste.410
