Conversations with Chef Rima

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chef Rima.

Hi Chef, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started Taste of Perfection over 18 years ago out of a deep love for food, culture, and connection. What began as cooking for close friends and family quickly grew into something bigger than I imagined — personal chef services, upscale catering, weddings, meal preps, and a full line of holistic herbal teas through my second company, TOP Tea LLC.

My background in the culinary industry spans over 26 years, and I’ve had the opportunity to cook for everyday families, professional athletes, corporate teams, and wellness retreats. I’ve also helped open restaurants and consulted for other small businesses, creating menus, pricing structures, and back-end systems. Over time, my business evolved into something more purpose-driven — not just food, but nourishment and healing through food, herbs, and intentional service.

It hasn’t always been easy. I’ve faced financial hardship, ongoing legal disputes, and personal challenges that have tested me on every level. I’m still walking through some of that now. But even in those moments, I find strength through my creativity, my faith, and the communities I serve. I believe in transparency — I’ve had to pivot, take extra jobs, and rebuild more than once. But I never gave up on what I was called to do.

Food is my ministry, and I move with passion, purpose, and presence. Everything I touch is rooted in love and resilience.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but it’s been a meaningful one. Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve had to navigate a lot of unexpected challenges, both personally and professionally. From building a business as a single mother to relocating cities while maintaining operations in multiple states, every step has required faith, focus, and flexibility.

One of the biggest struggles has been dealing with a recent legal dispute that disrupted my business finances and forced me to shift how I operate. I had to take on extra work, downsize in some areas, and really reevaluate how to protect myself and my brand going forward. It’s been emotionally and financially exhausting at times, but I’ve learned so much about standing on integrity and advocating for myself as a business owner.

There have been moments where I questioned everything — moments of burnout, betrayal, and instability. But I’ve also had moments of deep clarity, support from people who truly see me, and reminders that I was built for this. The struggles shaped me, sharpened me, and reminded me why I started in the first place. Every setback has become a setup for something greater.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What sets us apart is the intention behind everything we do. This isn’t just about food — it’s about creating memorable experiences through thoughtful, elevated service. We blend culinary expertise with holistic wellness, sourcing quality ingredients and often incorporating farm-to-table elements when possible. We’ve had the privilege to serve a diverse range of clients — from professional athletes and corporate teams to intimate family dinners and wellness retreats.

We’re known for our custom-tailored approach, impeccable presentation, and the ability to bring a soulful, healing energy into every space we serve. Whether it’s a plated dinner for two or a full-service buffet for a corporate event, we bring the same level of care and excellence.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how authentic and versatile we’ve remained. Even with the ups and downs, our brand continues to reflect integrity, resilience, and excellence. I want readers to know that Taste of Perfection is more than a catering company — it’s a culinary experience rooted in love, legacy, and purpose.

We currently serve clients in the Northern suburbs of Chicago and throughout the Nashville area, including Brentwood, Franklin, and Bellevue. We also offer nationwide travel for our private chef services. Whether you’re booking a wellness-focused dinner or looking for a chef who understands how to tailor menus to specific health and lifestyle needs, we bring perfection — with heart — to every table.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I believe risk is a necessary part of growth. As a business owner, you can’t get to the next level without being willing to step into the unknown. I don’t take reckless risks — but I do take intentional ones, especially when it comes to betting on myself and the vision I have for my work.

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was relocating to a new state while still running my business in another. I left behind familiarity, clients, and routine to expand my reach and rebuild in a new market — all while navigating personal challenges and still fulfilling my obligations to clients back home. That decision came with sacrifice, but it also opened doors I never expected.

Another major risk has been turning down work or walking away from clients that weren’t aligned — even when I needed the money. It’s hard to say no when you’re in a season of lack, but protecting my peace, my values, and my business has always been more important than a quick check. Some of those choices came with short-term hardship but long-term clarity and elevation.

To me, risk is about faith. It’s about being willing to move even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed, and trusting that what’s for you will always meet you where you’re aligned. I don’t think I’d be where I am today if I hadn’t taken those leaps.

Pricing:

• Private Chef Experiences Starting at $150–$225 per person for luxury 3-course meals $225–$275 per person for exclusive 3–4 course experiences with premium ingredients Chef fee: Flat or hourly (based on guest count and service style) 18% administrative/service fee applies to all private chef services
• Upscale Catering Services Buffet-style lunch/dinner: Starting at $65–$95 per person Premium brunch: Starting at $75–$95 per person Includes chef-curated entrées, upscale sides, seasonal salads, house-made breads, and signature desserts Customized menus available for dietary needs and seasonal/local sourcing
• Weddings & Intimate Events (100 guests or fewer) Starting at $110 per person Personalized planning and boutique-style service Tastings: $175 per person
• Meal Prep Services (Minimum of 5 meals per order) Standard meals: Starting at $25 per meal Custom nutrition/calorie-based meals: Starting at $45 per meal Athlete/High-Performance meal plans: Custom pricing based on needs and research Delivery fees vary by location and distance Includes optional add-ons: custom herbal teas, wellness smoothies, and Sea Moss products
• TOP Tea Herbal Blends, Sea Moss Smoothies & Barbecue Rubs Premium loose-leaf herbal teas for wellness, balance, and recovery Custom blends available with consultation Wellness smoothies with Sea Moss available upon request Signature barbecue rubs available year-round Shop at: https://siptoptea.myshopify.com Additional Fees & Considerations A 21% service fee is added to all catered events to cover coordination, admin support, and staffing Taxes and credit card processing fees will be reflected in the final invoice Pricing ensures premium service, culinary excellence, and fair compensation for our team and partners

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.toptasteofperfection.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toptasteofperfection/
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/tasteofperfectionllc
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@toptasteofperfection
• Other: https://topteastore.myshopify.com/