Rising Stars: Meet K.C. Ross of Rock Island, Illinois

Today we’d like to introduce you to K.C. Ross. Them and their team share their story with us below:

K.C. Ross, most commonly known by Chef Keys, has been dubbed “The Jane of Few Trades” She has a juxtaposition of careers being a former Law Enforcement Officer and a Chef. I also have a podcast Called the 3- Course Men. I am a television personality and very active in the community. I am a diehard New Yorker that was born and raised in Queens. I came to the Midwest for work, and life came in; and decided that instead of being in law enforcement, I needed to follow my passion for food and forming friendships. I started at the bottom of the totem pole in restaurants and worked in law enforcement simultaneously. I also headed swanky corporate events and intimate private dinners. Currently, I have a dinner club where I cater to the foodies of the Q.C. and those interested in more than just meat and potatoes. My family and friends truly inspired my cooking. I love to travel and converse. I feel real dinner conversations are a lost art, and I want to revive them. Growing up in Queens gave me influences ranging from my southern American and Jamaican roots. I enjoy all cuisines, especially Italian, Cajun, Latin, Asian, and of course, the NYC bodega chopped cheese. Now based in Rock Island, IL, Ross is ready to bring her palette and kitchen skills to the growing Quad Cities food scene.

We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, It has not been a smooth road. I have had to deal with coming into a community where everyone knows everyone. I was new and very guarded. I never wanted to change the Quad Cities; I only wanted to find my lane and dominate that. Imparting my view of the world through food and speech is all I want to do.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a Chef who hosts private dinners in my home. I specialize in curating 4-course surprise “Chef Choice” menus for my guests. I also have a television segment where I give the people of the Quad Cities fun tips and tricks on cooking. My most proud moment was when I realized someone I looked up to said they looked up to me. The thing that sets me apart is I am the underdog; humility, persistence, passion, determination, and grit are the things that drive me. I will continue to work like I’m a rookie and give as much as possible to those willing to go after it.

What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Never think you are the giant of your dreams. Stay patient, humble, and gracious, never step on others to get ahead, and have good intentions and actions. You will eventually get your winning season when you put good energy into the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: cookandcuffs.com
• Instagram: @cook_and_cuffs
• Facebook: facebook.com/cookandcuffsonfb
• Other: tiktok @cookandcuffs

Image Credits
Personal photo -photographer Ramo Nabiez Other photos are my own original work