A Flavorful Evolution: Chef Joe Cooks Brings Her Culinary Magic to The Legendary Dope Show
Celebrating food, passion, and local entrepreneurship, Chef Joe Cooks recently joined host Elisha Michelle on The Pop-Up! Presents: The Legendary Dope Show. Bringing her viral wing boil to the Black Media Matter Studio, the beloved Pacific Northwest chef opened up about her humble beginnings, navigating the culinary industry, and remaining authentic in the face of online attention.
From $1 Lumpia to Culinary Excellence
Joe Cooks’ passion for feeding people started long before she was turning heads on social media. Recalling her early days, she shared how her hustle began in church.
"My first plate sale was when I was like 16. At 16, I used to be the lumpia lady at church... We had $1 lumpias after church,” she said.
From those early church sales, Joe grew her brand into an empire, constantly striving to stand out from standard soul food offerings. She attributed her unique menu options, ranging from hibachi plates to late-night munchie meals, to her creative nature.
"I think I have a little bit of ADHD,” she said. “I never wanted to be the same. So, I just make whatever I like. And fried chicken... my people got to get released from that chokehold."
The Controversial Wing Boil and Viral Content
Joe showcased one of her absolute best-sellers: her famous, highly debated wing boil. Created as a flavor-packed alternative for those who cannot eat seafood, the dish features brined chicken wings, beef sausage, corn, potatoes, and boiled eggs served over white rice with a custom Cajun butter sauce.
Addressing the viral reactions and commentary that often flood her social media feeds, Joe remained unapologetically true to herself.
"It came to me because I am allergic to seafood. I'm not the first to do this, but I am the one that made it a thing,” she said.
When asked about dealing with negative comments, Joe laughed, noting that she isn't afraid to step in and handle internet trolls directly. However, she keeps her focus grounded on the art of cooking.
"Food is subjective... If you don't like it, you can move on with your life and it'll be completely fine,” she said.
The Secret Behind the Flavor
As Michelle tasted the wing boil live on air, praising the crispy texture and deeply infused flavors, Joe revealed she brined her chicken for 48 hours. Even with all her culinary successes, Joe shared one hilarious weakness in the kitchen.
"I can't make rice... I don't know what it is... I've got like four rice cookers. I can't do that [on the stove top],” she said.
Upcoming Pop-Ups and Community
Balancing her roles as a mother, partner, and entrepreneur, Joe continues to inspire a large, dedicated local community. She plans to focus on more pop-up events and transition into a commercial commissary kitchen.
Stay updated on Joe Cooks’ upcoming menus, seasonings, and pop-up locations on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.
Catch The Pop-Up! Presents: The Legendary Dope Show with Elisha Michelle Monday nights at 7 p.m. on the Converge Media YouTube channel.
Looking to book a space for your upcoming event? Check out Colman Commons for all your event space needs at colmancommons.com
