
Today we’d like to introduce you to Starr Montout.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
The Tastery was established in the Spring of 2017 after years of cooking for my family and friends. I considered myself a passionate foodie. I have always had a love for different foods, flavors and cultures. We started out by attending Pop Up Vendor events in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. The Pop Events provided exposure for my business and allowed us to build our clientele.
In 2019, I decided to attend The Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism Institute (HCAT) at Anne Arundel Community College to hone my craft and passion for food, I will graduate in May 2022.
The Tastery provides soul food cuisine with the Caribbean and Latin explosion of flavors. We only use the best quality of meats, poultry, and fresh, fruits, and vegetables. We put a twist on some of the classic dishes. No mix of fresh herbs and spices are off-limits.
The Tastery specializes in personal chef services, catering small intimate affairs and special events for a group of 1-50 people. We also offer private chef services to provide an at home dining experiences that bring restaurant quality dishes to you.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It was not a smooth road at all. There is a lot of anxiety and self-doubt in this field.
Having supportive family and friends is helping me overcome this obstacle. It’s a work in progress…
What I struggled with in the beginning was trying to do everything myself. You have to learn to delegate and ask for help in order for your business to be successful.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
The Tastery operated by Chef Starr is a black woman owned business located in Severn, Maryland. We service Maryland, DC and Virginia. We are known for providing a fresh look on classic dishes.
The Tastery specializes in personal chef services, catering small intimate affairs and special events for a group of 1-50 people. Our private chef services provide an at home dining experiences that bring restaurant quality dishes to you in the comfort of your home.
The Tastery is now expanding by offering flavorful sauces and seasonings. I am most proud of our these sauces and seasoning because they are not like another sauces and seasonings you find in the store. Fresh ingredients and lower sodium and intense flavor.
What’s next?
The Tastery is planning on curating supper club experiences this summer to provide our current and new clients with signature cocktails and tasting menus that will excite their tastebuds and provide an overall gorgeous experience.
We partner with other local black women owned businesses to provide glamorous picnic experiences this summer season.
Contact Info:
- Email: starr@tastery.co
- Website: www.tastery.co
- Instagram: @thetasterymd
- Facebook: @thetasterymd


Deborah Ellison
May 20, 2022 at 5:32 pm
Wow, So proud of my wonderfully talented daughter . Starr has always had a passion for cooking. Great Job!