It’s no secret Chicago is filled with some of the top places to eat, drink, and have world-class experiences, thanks to local influencers like Janquel Jennings. As a food, travel, and lifestyle creator, Janquel has grown her popular social media and blog “Lavish Food Life” by shedding a positive light on the finer things in the Windy City and beyond.
Coming from a corporate background, Janquel has successfully combined her marketing skills, deep love for cuisine, and years of being the go-to expert on restaurant recommendations and date night ideas to create an influential platform that attracts thousands.
Get to know Janquel and follow her Instagram to keep up with her next adventures — they’re sure to be yummy!
1. What is the focus of your platform — is it just the Chicago food scene, or also travel?
“I focus mainly on food, things to do, and travel. But it all comes down to my love for food and how it has the ability to connect us to moments in time that hold some of our favorite memories.
For instance, a wedding guest of mine from 6 years ago still talks about the incredible dinner served at my wedding. Some of my best girls’ nights have been around a table filled with delicious food and cocktails. Most of the date nights and travel adventures my wife and I go on are centered around food experiences.”
2. Tell us about your background and what prompted you to start your blog and Instagram?
“I was born and raised in Chicago. My background is in Content Marketing and SEO strategy, where I have worked for innovative companies like Wilton, Sears/Kmart, and US Foods. While working at Wilton, my love for food grew deeper as I was immersed in consumer and market trends and used data to develop new recipe ideas for the company. It was fun working with bakers and the production teams to see those recipes come to life.
Aside from my work in the corporate world, I was inspired to start my blog and social media platforms after years of being the go-to for family and friends looking for date night ideas, restaurant recommendations, and help with planning vacations. People always told me I should start a blog or post about my experiences, so I finally just went for it.”
3. What’s been the most fulfilling part about your platform?
“Building a community and connecting with others over similar passions and interests. It’s also so fulfilling to help businesses raise awareness and expand their reach. Last year, one of my videos received 3 million views, which led to a 50% increase in traffic for the establishment I was promoting. The appreciation I received from them warmed my heart. That made me truly realize what I do is bigger than me.”
4. What has been your favorite part about your career?
“Some of my favorite things about this career are connecting with others, building a brand, and expressing my creativity through content that inspires people and conveys the message a business or brand wants to convey to their target audience.
Additionally, it is exciting to be at the forefront of new trends and technologies and to be a part of the development and execution of fun campaigns.”
5. What would you say is the most underrated spot in Chicago?
“To me, the most underrated spot in Chicago is Rico Arepa.
Rico Arepa is a small family-owned Venezuelan restaurant in Hermosa and Lake View East. Not only are they BYOB, but they also offer a delicious variety of arepas and other Venezuelan specialties like empanadas and cachapas, which are sweet corn pancakes filled with cheese.”
6. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve undergone in your career, and how did you overcome it?
“As an individual who is dedicated to diversity and inclusion in the workplace, I have faced various challenges throughout my career. One of the most significant challenges I have experienced is the lack of representation of underrepresented groups in the industry.
In particular, the absence of black and brown faces in the establishments I frequent and the lack of representation at events has been a notable obstacle. Despite being invited to feature and promote establishments, I have observed that the faces of underrepresented groups are often not represented on the websites or social media feeds of these establishments.
To overcome this challenge, I have taken the initiative to speak up when necessary and share resources and contacts to create a more inclusive environment. Additionally, I am actively creating spaces that are welcoming and accommodating to everyone. By actively advocating for diversity and inclusion, I believe we can foster a more equitable and just society that is beneficial for all.”
7. As someone who covers dating content, what makes Chicago better than other cities when it comes to romance?
“Chicago is a beautiful city that offers a wide range of options for a romantic date night. The skyline is the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening, and the city offers a variety of dining options and things to do, from deep-dish pizza and mouth-watering seafood to scenic tours or romantic walks along the river. Chicago offers an unforgettable date night experience for every couple, regardless of their budget.
When my wife and I were teenagers, we didn't have a lot of money for date nights, but that didn't stop us from having a great time in Chicago! We would take the train downtown and head to Ed Debevic’s for burgers and their antics. After, we’d spend hours walking along the river, taking in the gorgeous skyline and just enjoying each other's company.
Now that we’re adults, our date nights look a little different. We love taking in skyline views from rooftop bars and checking out new restaurants mainly. One of my current favorites is RPM Steakhouse, where I can't get enough of the steak and miso lobster tail. That being said, we often look back on those early years and the date night memories we created in Chicago and still enjoy affordable dining options and free city views from time to time.”
Courtesy of @lavishfoodlife
8. The Chicago food scene can be incredibly overwhelming — how do you choose places to try and highlight?
“Choosing which places to highlight is all about striking a balance between my personal tastes, the interests of my audience, and the overall goal for content.
Sometimes this involves research to determine if a restaurant has a standout menu item or if an establishment fits the emotions I want to convey in my content. For instance, when looking to highlight a romantic dinner date for two, I may choose an establishment that provides a cozy and intimate vibe instead of a lively, energetic spot that may be better for a group.
By focusing on what makes each spot unique, having a strategy, and keeping my audience in mind, I create content that resonates with my followers and helps them discover new and exciting places to dine in Chicago.”
9. What’s your top five favorite places in Chicago that you would recommend to someone visiting?
“Only five places is hard! My top favorites include RPM Steakhouse, Girl and the Goat, Lena Brava, Chicago Magic Lounge, Starbucks Reserve, Gibsons Italia, and King of Cups.”
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