Hi, I’m Hannah Whitecare—chef, founder, and forever student of the kitchen. My journey began in the lively heart of New Orleans, where the air hums with jazz and the scent of spices floats down every street. Cooking wasn’t just a hobby growing up—it was the heartbeat of my home, deeply rooted in my Cajun and Creole heritage. My grandmother, the original kitchen queen, taught me how to cook with love, soul, and just the right amount of sass. She passed down her cherished recipes, and I soaked up every moment by her side.

But becoming a chef? That wasn’t always easy.

From the start, I knew I’d face resistance—especially as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Some people doubted me. Some outright dismissed me. But I didn’t let that stop me. I turned the heat up on my dreams and enrolled at the Culinary Institute of New Orleans. It challenged me in every way imaginable, but I pushed through, determined to learn from the best and prove I belonged.

After graduation, I followed my gut (and my heart) and opened Martine’s Creole Cuisine in the French Quarter. This wasn’t just a restaurant—it was my story on a plate. With rustic charm, soulful music, and a kitchen full of heritage, I created a space where guests could taste the culture I grew up in. Dishes like Bayou Gumbo Étouffée and Crawfish Éclair became fast favorites—bold, fresh, and unforgettable, just like the city that raised me.

As the restaurant gained attention, so did I. Awards came in, food critics raved, but more importantly, guests kept coming back—not just for the food, but for the feeling. At Martine’s, everyone feels like family.

Sure, the challenges kept coming—bias doesn’t disappear overnight—but I stayed fierce, focused, and fearless. I didn’t just want to succeed for myself—I wanted to open doors for others. So I began mentoring aspiring chefs, especially women, helping them find confidence in the kitchen and reminding them they belong here too.

Now, years later, I’m still cooking, still creating, and still chasing that magic spark I felt as a little girl in my grandmother’s kitchen. My journey isn’t just about food—it’s about breaking barriers, honoring roots, and building a legacy that feeds the soul.

So if you ever find yourself in New Orleans, swing by Martine’s. I’ll save you a seat, serve you something special, and remind you that dreams taste even better when they’re seasoned with passion.