19 December 2023
From Soulful Melodies to Mouthwatering Delights, Patti LaBelle’s Culinary Journey
Patti LaBelle, the iconic singer known for her powerhouse vocals and electrifying performances, has a lesser-known passion that has simmered alongside her musical career – her love for cooking. With a career spanning decades and a string of hits under her belt, LaBelle’s culinary talents have become a well-kept secret among her fellow musicians and fans. From her famous encounters with music legends to her favorite restaurants in Philadelphia, LaBelle’s culinary journey is as vibrant and flavorful as her music.
Cooking for the Stars:
In her first cookbook, LaBelle Cuisine: Recipes To Sing About, published in 1999, LaBelle candidly shared her lifelong love for both singing and cooking. From her early days as a little girl, she knew that these two passions would shape her life. Over the years, her fellow musicians have had the pleasure of experiencing her culinary skills firsthand. One notable story involves a young British pianist named Reg Dwight, who later became known as Elton John. After failing to return Tupperware she had sent him home with, he made amends by gifting her a diamond ring. These anecdotes highlight the depth of LaBelle’s culinary prowess and the impact it has had on those around her.
A Taste of Philadelphia:
When it comes to dining out in Philadelphia, LaBelle has her favorites. While she cherishes her own kitchen, considering it one of the best restaurants, she does venture out occasionally. The Capital Grille, a renowned steakhouse with locations in Center City and King of Prussia, holds a special place in her heart. She appreciates the quality and flavors they offer. Previously, Ms. Tootsie’s, owned by the late chef KeVen Parker, was her go-to spot. Sadly, the restaurant closed its doors after Parker’s passing in 2021. LaBelle’s connection to the city’s culinary scene adds another layer to her multifaceted persona.
A Soulful Business:
LaBelle’s culinary talents extend beyond her personal kitchen and dining experiences. She has ventured into the soul food business, collaborating with Walmart to create a line of products, including macaroni & cheese, collard greens, and fruit cobblers. In 2015, a viral review by food vlogger James Wright Chanel catapulted her sweet potato pies to newfound fame, leading to a surge in sales. LaBelle acknowledges the impact of holiday season gatherings on her business and expresses gratitude for the support she has received.
The Hot Sauce Connoisseur:
No discussion of LaBelle’s culinary adventures would be complete without mentioning her love for hot sauce. Known to carry bottles of her favorite fiery condiments wherever she goes, she adds a spicy kick to her meals and shares the heat with those around her. Jamaican rapper Shaggy once recounted a memorable encounter with LaBelle and Rihanna at an awards show in Monaco, where she surprised the table with her hot sauce collection. Scorned Woman, Pain 100%, and Kick Ass Jalapeno are among her preferred flavors, and her collection continues to grow. LaBelle’s passion for hot sauce adds a dash of flavor and personality to her culinary repertoire.
Conclusion:
Patti LaBelle’s culinary journey intertwines seamlessly with her legendary music career. From cooking for fellow musicians to her favorite restaurants in Philadelphia, her love for food and flavors shines through. Her foray into the soul food business and her affinity for hot sauce further showcase her culinary prowess. Patti LaBelle’s talents extend far beyond the stage, creating a harmonious blend of melodies and mouthwatering delights that continue to captivate audiences around the world.
