By Janina Benedik on April 7, 2026
A lifelong passion for cooking meets hometown pride in a concept that’s as personal as it is flavorful
In Charlotte’s vibrant South End, where new concepts and culinary ideas are constantly emerging, one local chef is bringing something deeply personal to the table.
David Jenkins, founder of Born & Raised, isn’t just serving food – he’s sharing his story, his roots, and over 20 years of culinary experience through every dish he creates.
For David, cooking has never been just a job. It’s a way to connect with people.
The name Born & Raised isn’t just branding – it’s identity.
“I was born and raised in Charlotte,” David explains. “I wanted something that represents not just me, but the people here and the culture I grew up with.”
Instead of putting his own name on the business, he built a concept around community and shared experience. The menu reflects dishes he grew up eating, combined with techniques and flavors he’s developed over two decades in the kitchen.
The result is a unique take on southern-infused cuisine – familiar, comforting, yet elevated by experience.
In a world where convenience often comes at the expense of quality, David focuses on something simple but powerful: authenticity.
The food tastes homemade. It’s not processed. It’s not manufactured, but prepared from scratch with care and intention. That commitment is what sets Born & Raised apart.
Customers aren’t just ordering a meal – they’re getting a genuine taste of Charlotte, crafted by someone who truly understands its culinary roots.
Through takeout, delivery, catering, and pop-up events, David brings that experience to a wide range of customers across the city.
When asked about his journey into the business, David’s answer is simple and genuine.
“Food makes people happy,” he says. “You can see it on their face the moment they taste something they love.”
That reaction – the sense of excitement, surprise, satisfaction – is what drives him.
For David, making people happy through food is more than just a job – it’s his gift, and a philosophy that turns every order into something more meaningful than just a transaction.
While David leads the kitchen, Born & Raised is very much a family effort.
His girlfriend plays a key role as the creative force behind the desserts, recently launching Jenn’s Sweet Spot – a complementary concept operating from the same kitchen.
Together, they’re building something bigger than a single brand: a growing business driven by collaboration, creativity, and a shared passion for great food.
As the business expands, David plans to continue bringing in close friends and family – keeping the foundation personal, even as it scales.
Like many small business owners, David’s journey hasn’t been without challenges.
Opening his first kitchen came with unexpected setbacks, including weather delays that pushed back the launch. But pushing through that process became a defining moment.
“It was my first kitchen. My recipes, my ideas, on a plate,” he says.
Along the way, he learned that running a business requires constant effort, often extending far beyond traditional working hours.
Being a Charlotte native is a major part of David’s identity – and his brand.
“There aren’t a lot of people doing this who are actually from here,” he says. “So what you get is real – authentic, local flavor.”
That authenticity resonates with customers, reflected in strong reviews and repeat business. Many of them return not just for the food, but for the feeling – something familiar, genuine, and rooted in the community.
David’s vision for the future is clear and ambitious.
Over the next five years, he plans to expand into multiple locations, introduce food trucks, and eventually open a full sit-down restaurant.
The next step in that journey is launching a food truck concept that will bring Born & Raised and Jenn’s Sweet Spot to even more people across Charlotte.
At the heart of it all is a simple idea that defines the entire brand:
“The food we provide is our story on a plate.”
Every recipe, every flavor, every detail reflects David’s journey – from growing up in Charlotte to building a business rooted in passion, persistence, and purpose.
And for those who try it, that story is something you can taste.
Whether you’re looking for authentic southern-inspired food, catering for an event, or simply a meal that feels like home, Born & Raised offers something different.
Not just food – but a story worth experiencing.
500 W Summit Ave Charlotte, NC 28203
Website: born-n-raisedeatz.com
Social: Facebook | Instagram
Email: mgmt@dsgoodeatz.com
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