MEET ALISHA

HI, I'M
ALISHA SMITH

I'm a passionate Food Cultural Nostalgist and the founder of Roots & Returns. My journey began with a profound admiration for my grandmother’s, Laura and Aleize, who taught me the power of food as a connector within our community.

Alisha Smith in an a kitchen wearing an apron

A darkly lit room where a small black table holds a plate of half eaten cake and 2 glasses of wine

The Birth of
Roots & Returns

After experiencing significant losses in my life, including the passing of my grandmothers, struggles with infertility, and divorce, I turned to baking as a way to feel close to her and to channel my grief into something beautiful.

Through my own self-discovery, I uncovered how baking and cooking can nourish the spirit and provide emotional solace. This realization ignited my mission to help others stir up nostalgic memories and emotions tied to food while honoring cultural traditions and culinary heritage. Roots & Returns is dedicated to preserving these cherished legacies, curating experiences that celebrate the rich history and social importance of humanity through cooking and baking.

The Lessons Learned

What I know for sure is that when we engage with the flavors and memories of our past, we honor the legacy of our ancestors and deepen our connection to our roots. My goal is to create a “third place” that celebrates the creativity and resilience of Black culture, supporting local Black businesses and showcasing the vibrant tapestry of our community. Through my own self-discovery, I uncovered how baking and cooking can nourish the spirit and provide emotional solace.

This realization ignited my mission to help others stir up nostalgic memories and emotions tied to food while honoring cultural traditions and culinary heritage. Roots & Returns is dedicated to preserving these cherished legacies, curating experiences that celebrate the rich history and social importance of humanity through cooking and baking.

Cooking & Connecting

I pinch myself every morning that my job is to help others honor their loved ones through food, creating unforgettable moments of connection and joy. Join me on this culinary journey, and let’s celebrate the strength and creativity that food brings to our lives together!

Get Connected

Navigating Grief: Embracing Sadness in Our Story

Have You Been Baking or Cooking Since You Were a Kid?

I WELCOME YOU

I Invite you to Get Lost Here

I've filled this platform with thoughts, resources, recipes and various ways to connect with both me and other women like us. I invite you to spent time here and find something that resonates with your needs.

Consider this your offical welcome to Roots & Returns.

- Love Alisha