We recently had the chance to connect with Alessia Benavides and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Alessia, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I start by waking up in the morning, getting the kids ready for school, dropping them off, and driving to the shop. I begin working on the production of bonbons or whatever needs to be done first. Sometimes, I test new recipes. After my assistant G arrives, I go pick up the kids and head home.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Chef Alessia Benavides. I have been working in the pastry industry since 2009. I started teaching professional pastry classes in 2012 while I was working at the Art Institute. I began teaching classes on the side in 2023, and in June 2025, I opened my own store where we teach baking and pastry classes. You can also find chocolate, confections, and some pastries there.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I have a few memories, but the most recent one is that I was able to open my shop. Once I opened, I felt proud and powerful. I said to myself, “Wow, I really did it.” There were times when I wanted to quit because the process was very hard, but my friends told me I could do it. I would go every day to check on the build-out, and there were problems with the city regarding inspections or extra things that needed to be done. But once everything was good to go, that’s when I felt powerful.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes! The city kept pushing for things I needed to add, like a very expensive wall. I had saved so much, but I didn’t have the funds for that costly request. So, I ended up taking a loan to cover the extra expenses. I really thought I was going to fail before opening.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes! I’m always myself.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
Definitely professionally taught baking classes. My classes are fun and best of all, affordable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chefalessb.com
- Instagram: @chocolatl.tx
- Facebook: chocolatl.tx
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/lqSgoeb8-t
Image Credits
Headshot by Erika Michelle photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
