Creole 2 Geaux: From Food Truck to Brick-and-Mortar

Columbus's culinary landscape has a vibrant heartbeat, and at its core, pulsating with rich flavors, is Creole 2 Geaux. The brainchild of Janvier and Sharif, two avid foodies who turned their passion into a burgeoning local empire, Creole 2 Geaux is more than just a dining spot—it's a story of homage, heritage, and the hearty warmth of Southern hospitality.

A Foodie Dream Takes Wheels

It all started back in 2016, with a simple observation: Columbus's streets were lacking the zest and soul of Creole and Cajun cuisine. With a food truck and a dream, Janvier and Sharif set out to fill this gap, bringing a taste of New Orleans to the Midwest. Fast forward through sweat, laughter, and countless servings of gumbo, and you find Creole 2 Geaux expanding from a hidden gem on wheels to two robust brick-and-mortar locations—one nestled in the bustling East Market 212 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH and the other adding spice to the Nationwide Arena Area 401 N Front St, Columbus, OH.

Challenges and Successes: The Brick-and-Mortar Journey

The road from a food truck to a permanent address wasn't paved with just beignets and po' boys. It took dedication, adaptation, and a commitment to maintaining the essence of their beloved Creole cooking. The result? Two locations each with its unique flavor. The East Market offers a quick bite for those on the go, while the Nationwide spot serves up not just speed to rival Chipotle's quick service but a full experience—complete with art, murals, and a full bar that pours as much personality as it does spirits.

A Tribute to Family and Tradition

The opening of the East Market location wasn't just a business milestone—it was a personal tribute. The date marked a homage to Janvier's late brother, intertwining family memory with the fabric of their growing legacy. This sense of family and tradition goes even deeper with Janvier's connection to the legendary Leah Chase, the Queen of Creole Cuisine herself, and Janvier's great-great-aunt. From the Disney character Princess Tiana to the civil rights movement, Leah Chase's impact danced through history—and now through Creole 2 Geaux's very essence.

Adjusting the Heat: Catering to the Columbus Palate

Janvier and Sharif have masterfully tailored their recipes to the Columbus palate—toning down the heat without compromising on the flavors that dance in your mouth with every bite. Yet, for those craving that fiery kick, the Nationwide location boasts a hot sauce bar. From house-made concoctions to local and national favorites, it's a shrine to the spicy spirit of New Orleans.

The Creole 2 Geaux Experience: Fast, Flavorful, and Full of Heart

Whether it's gumbo season or not, Creole 2 Geaux stands as a testament to Janvier and Sharif's vision: to serve up Southern comfort with efficiency, without losing an ounce of the soul that makes their food resonate with so many. As you step into either location, you're wrapped in more than just the tantalizing aromas of Creole cooking—you're enveloped in the rich tapestry of their family history, the vibrant vibes of New Orleans, and a community bond that only a place full of passion can forge.

So, Columbus, whether you're in for a "quick bite" or a leisurely sip surrounded by art and culture, Creole 2 Geaux is your go-to. It's a place where every dish is steeped in history, and every visit feels like coming home.

Stay Connected

And for those of you following my journey, stay tuned to my podcast, where I continue to explore stories like Janvier and Sharif's—tales of passion, cuisine, and community that define and shape our world. Join me on 614 feast podcast, follow my latest adventures on social media, and get a taste of my business ventures where every project is another ingredient in the recipe of life.

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Best cheesesteak in Columbus, Ohio

Marlow's Cheesesteaks Columbus, Ohio - 614 Feast Podcast

Welcome to another savory episode of the 614 feast podcast where we dive into the flavorful world of Marlow's Cheesesteaks, a culinary gem that transcends the ordinary by transforming a water ice business into a beloved cheesesteak restaurant in Gahanna.

From their humble water ice beginnings at Eastland and Tuttle malls to establishing a vibrant restaurant in Gahanna, Marlow's stands out with an irresistible feast for the senses, combining robust flavors, superior quality, and affordability. The space itself has local charm, featuring an eye-catching mural featuring Philadelphia legends by a Columbus artist, enhancing the dining experience with its creative ambiance.

Pat’s vs Geno’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks

In Columbus, we're debunking the myth of single-city dominance when it comes to cheesesteaks. Echoing the friendly rivalry of Pat’s versus Geno’s in Philadelphia, Marlow's enters the local arena, inviting comparisons with Hoagie City and Wario’s, among others. Central to their success is the authentic Philly touch - an homage to the distinctive bread and crucial ingredients in crafting the perfect cheesesteak.

Marlow's innovative spirit was on full display during their three-month stint at Budd Dairy Food Hall, a program reserved for aspiring restaurateurs without the resources for their own establishment. Their journey mirrors Columbus’s culinary diversity, as reflected in their TOP THREE COLUMBUS, OHIO restaurant picks: Lola and Giuseppes, Hoyo’s, and Los Guachos.

Reading Terminal Market vs. North Market Downtown

Our discussion takes a comparative twist with a Reading Terminal versus North Market debate and a quest to find the best ramen in Columbus. Still, at its core, Marlow's narrative is one of family and community. Their hours of operation underscore a commitment to their son with autism, emphasizing that family values permeate every aspect of their business. This dedication extends to empowering experiences through their collaboration with I Am Boundless, an initiative supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.

Our conversation takes a nostalgic turn, exploring food representations in media, including memorable cheesesteak and water ice scenes from "Creed" and surprising revelations from the "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" reboot. Join us in this flavorful expedition into Marlow's Cheesesteaks, where every bite tells a story of passion, family, and a relentless pursuit of culinary excellence.

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough. 614 feast podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

A Magical Feast with Magician Michael Kent

Penn & Teller: Fool Us

In this enchanting episode of the 614 feast podcast, we're spicing up our regular foodie fare with a dash of magic, courtesy of the spellbinding Magician Michael Kent. Our tasty talk starts with the cozy corners of the Starliner Diner in Hilliard, stirring the cauldron of food debates with a slice of polarizing pizza from Dicarlo’s.

Whisked through a tale of mesmerizing feats, we delve into Michael’s magical performance on Penn & Teller: Fool Us. Our taste buds are in for a treat as Michael unveils his magical act, a potpourri of delightful tricks entwining the ordinary with the extraordinary; a banana, lemon, potato, chicken, egg, and a Slim Jim, each playing their whimsical part in his magical narrative. The Slim Jim holds a special place in Michael’s heart (and act!), owing to its perfect size and the laughs it evokes every night on stage.

The NYC style pizza in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Amidst the aroma of magic and food, Michael reminisces about his favorite food portrayal on screen – the iconic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) pizza, embodying the classic NYC slice. Pizza nostalgia as he recalls the iconic Domino's box product placement in the movie, intertwined with a school field trip to Domino's, baking a hearty pizza of childhood memories.

Sushi in Tokyo, Pizza in Naples, Buffalo Wild Wings in USA…

Yet, the tale of Michael’s culinary escapade has a humble beginning. A cautious eater, he didn’t have a taco until he was in college. However, as the world unfolded through his tours, so did his palate, morphing into a canvas of flavors he now explores with gusto. From sushi in Tokyo to the authentic taste of Neapolitan pizza in Naples, or a Buffalo Wild Wings in anytown USA, every bite tells a story. The narrative takes a mythical turn as we unravel the sacrificial origins of pork pozole, leading us to a quirky tidbit about the Pringles inventor who found his final resting place in a Pringles can.

Join us in this magical culinary journey with Michael Kent, as we unravel the tales of food, magic, and the endless wonders they brew together. With every trick and treat, we discover that the world of food, much like magic, holds a promise of the unexpected, waiting to be unveiled one bite, one spell, at a time. For more Michael listen to his podcast and go see him perform live

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough!

Breakfast with Nick and Beth Dekker

Breakfast with nick and beth dekker 614 feast podcast descriPTION

614 feast podcast with Columbus, Ohio food legends! Nick and his wife Beth Dekker, cornerstones of the city's culinary and art scenes, join me on the latest 614 feast podcast. Delicious discussion about all things breakfast, all things Columbus food scene, hidden gems of Worthington, and more.

Crafting Content Together: Finding Balance in Disagreement

A listener asked, “How do they handle a disagreement when it comes to creating content?” When it comes to handling disagreements in content creation, Beth brings an eye for detail and can occasionally lean towards a more critical viewpoint. Nick, on the other hand, accentuates the positive. Even when faced with less than stellar experiences, he strives for honest representation over harsh criticism.

From Akron, Ohio to London, England: Four Cornerstones of a Memorable Trip

When Nick and Beth set out on a journey, whether it's a brief day trip to Akron or an extensive exploration in London, England, they have FOUR KEY THINGS on their radar:

• food

• parks

• drinks

• art

While they appreciate the structure of a well-planned itinerary, they also value spontaneity, embracing the joys of going with the flow. To ensure they get the best of both worlds, they utilize tools like 'Google My Maps' to organize their adventures, striking a balance between serendipity and maximizing fun.

We talk about the high-quality content you can create with an iPhone and natural light. Pro tip: sit by a window and eat dinner while the sun is still out. They've got some expert tips on how to find the best coffee shops in Columbus and any other city you find yourself in.

Can food be art?

Food's not just about filling up; it's an art in its own right. 'Breakfast with Nick' showcases that, even venturing beyond morning meals. Ever heard of Dutch baby pancakes? I hadn't, but they're on my radar now. And while we're on the topic of discoveries, Beth, who doubles as Worthington, Ohio's tourism director, dishes out reasons why you should drop by the town. Give it a listen! Follow Beth and Nick. Here’s a link for Breakfast with Nick and here’s his first appearance on the 614 feast podcast.

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough!

Hoggy's, Texas Steele, and SmokeOut barbecue.

The best barbecue in Columbus, ohio

Columbus Ohio barbecue, on this week's episode I chat with the owners of Hoggy’s BBQ, Texas Steele BBQ, and SmokeOut BBQ. We talk about their different styles, methods, and food philosophies. Hoggy’s has been in business since 1991, SmokeOut is a former food truck turned brick and mortar, and Texas Steele is a food truck owned by a pitmaster trained in Texas. Three different owners and styles. This is a great episode.

Ray Ray’s Hog Pit

But what about Ray Ray’s?!?! Yes of course, I invited James but he wasn’t available this time. However, you can listen to his 614 feast podcast episode here. What about Hank’s Texas BBQ?!?! I sent them a message and they didn’t respond. This episode is tons of fun though, let me know what you think!

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough!

Flavor 91 Bistro: Celebrating Seven Delicious Years

Back in 2020, Moses was the third guest ever on my podcast, and now, he returns for a second appearance, this time bringing along his mom, Weini, and sister, Winta. Their restaurant, Flavor 91 Bistro, is gearing up to celebrate its seventh anniversary on 9/16/2023.

Whitehall, Ohio restaurant celebrating its 7-year anniversary.

“American Fare, Axum Flair” Their culinary philosophy? Freshness in every bite, driven by a commitment to locally and ethically sourced ingredients. Journey with them as they recount their evolution from establishing a renowned restaurant to expanding with a food truck venture. The trio shares the essence of family - working together day in and day out yet cherishing their off days by spending quality time together every Sunday.

Central Ohio's Top Local Restaurants

Our conversation doesn't just stop at their personal tales; we venture into the burgeoning food scene of Columbus and Whitehall, Ohio. We discuss the invaluable role of impeccable customer service and explore how the distinct skill sets of each family member meld together, creating a symphony of unforgettable dining experiences. Try their award-winning food: Flavor 91 Bistro 5186 E Main St, Whitehall, OH 43213

Tune into 614 feast podcast, your go-to Columbus, Ohio podcast.

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough!

614 feast on Spotify Apple Podcast and wherever you listen.

The Cheesecake Girl owner Samantha Strange

Samantha Strange, the mastermind behind "The Cheesecake Girl",

from Dublin, Ohio, and has a culinary degree from Jacksonville State University, Alabama, secured in 2015. With a major sweet tooth driving her, Samantha's expertise is evident in every creamy bite.

---

In September 2021, "The Cheesecake Girl" proudly launched its production facility, now the central hub supplying all four of its branches. They don't just satisfy local cravings; they ship their delicious cheesecakes nationwide via Gold Belly. Delicious discussion about the magic behind her recipe development, her personal top three flavors, and the crowd favorites.

Unpopular food opinions

Samantha has unique food preferences that never fail to lol. Her family finds humor in her ordering a steak at an Italian restaurant. But what truly stands out? Her PASS to most sauces and all condiments. In her world, butter noodles reign supreme, and sandwiches, burgers, even hot dogs are best enjoyed DRY. CBD and or THC cheesecakes

Addressing a dash of controversy, Samantha gracefully responds to a listener's critique about a cheesecake experience. Ever the professional, she is open to feedback, urging customers to reach out directly to ensure their concerns are addressed.

Best Diner in Columbus, Ohio

As we round off, Samantha dishes on her favorite diners in Columbus, Ohio. Will Waffle House or Starliner Diner get her vote, or maybe a third place? Samantha shares her take on crafting CBD and THC-infused cheesecakes. Join the 614 feast podcast for a delightful, cheesecake-infused chat!🍰🎙️

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough!

Fukuryu Ramen’s owner Jeff Tsao

Fresh Noodles and Expertise: The Secret Sauce Behind the Best Ramen.

In this episode of the 614 feast podcast, Jeff Tsao and I dive deep into the savory world of ramen. He tells me the rich origin story of Fukuryu Ramen, sharing how guidance from a ramen master in Japan shaped their distinctive broths. With four booming locations throughout Columbus and plans to grow through both franchising and corporate stores, Fukuryu is a testament to Jeff's family's legacy in the food industry—tracing back to the renowned Kahiki restaurant and its evolution into a frozen food empire.

Do you eat ramen year round?

I asked Jeff what his favorite instant ramen was and while Jeff might not be a fan of instant noodles (possibly due to his commitment to fresh noodles at his ramen joints), he said that his family does like them.

Film Feast - The Matrix

Jeff’s favorite representation of food in film was The Matrix, we both agreed if our options are fake steak or real mush we’re going with fake steak. 614 feast podcast a Columbus, Ohio food podcast.

Brick House Blue Podcast Studio

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue The Loop | 6515 Longshore Loop, Suite 100, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Not only do they offer a stunning, acoustically optimized podcast studio, but the affordability is truly unbeatable at just $30 an hour. Beyond their podcast amenities, Brick House Blue is a vibrant hub for open coworking, impactful meetings, virtual mail services, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bridgepark Dublin, their location is both picturesque and convenient. And if you're ever in need of such a space, their website is a breeze to navigate and book. I can't recommend them enough!