We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Suzette Bologna. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Suzette below.
Suzette, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
I developed my confidence and self-esteem through the profound love and unwavering support of my father, who always encouraged me to explore my creativity. From the moment I took my first steps, I felt an irresistible pull toward the kitchen, mesmerized by my father’s exceptional Italian culinary skills. I vividly remember the excitement of pulling up a chair to assist him, starting with something as simple as cracking eggs. That small act was a gateway to a lifelong passion for baking and cooking.
The years I spent alongside him in our family restaurant were transformative. Each day was a new opportunity to learn, to experiment, and to share in the joy of creating something delicious. My father’s enthusiasm was infectious; he had a remarkable ability to turn cooking into an art form. I watched in awe as he transformed fresh ingredients into incredible dishes, each one telling a story. I eagerly absorbed his wisdom and techniques, from the delicate folding of dough to the intricate balance of flavors.
Cooking became my canvas, and baking my favorite medium. I found pure joy in experimenting with recipes, adding my own twist to traditional dishes and baking, and discovering the magic that happens when ingredients come together. The kitchen was not just a place to prepare meals or baking; it was a space where I felt free to express myself and share my love with others. I cherished the laughter and connection that food and baked treats brings, whether it was a simple family dinner or a bustling night in the restaurant.
Those experiences instilled in me a sense of belonging and purpose. My father’s belief in my potential helped me cultivate my skills and develop a strong sense of identity as a chef. Even now, as I navigate my culinary journey without him, I carry forward his legacy. I channel his love for food and the joy he found in sharing it with others. Every dish I create is a tribute to him, a way to keep his spirit alive and to spread the love and warmth he instilled in me.
My passion for cooking and baking fuels my desire to innovate and connect with people through food. Whether I’m experimenting with new flavor combinations or perfecting a classic recipe, I find inspiration in every moment spent in the kitchen. Each meal is an opportunity to evoke memories, spark joy, and create lasting connections, reflecting the love my father instilled in me. Through cooking and Baking, I honor his memory while continuing to build my own confidence and creativity in the kitchen.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
“Rockin This Kitchen” is a culinary gem, offering delicious Italian cuisine and Italian baked goods with an authentic touch. Chef Suzette’s Brooklyn, New York upbringing and Sicilian influence add a unique flair to the offerings, making it a must taste! A door to door delivery of Bakery & Catering needs in Surprise, Arizona, for anyone craving authentic, homemade, Italian delights. Delivery area’s are Surprise, El Mirage, Sun City, Sun City West, Peoria, Glendale, Litchfield Park and Scottsdale,
The story of “Rockin This Kitchen” is one of resilience, creativity, and compassion born in the midst of one of the world’s darkest moments—during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, as the world came to a grinding halt, so did many of life’s simple pleasures. Lockdowns were enforced, businesses shut down, and the familiar comfort of going out for a meal or coffee became impossible. People were struggling with isolation, depression, and fear as the future seemed uncertain.
At the time, Suzette was working a job selling glasses, and like many, she witnessed the overwhelming sadness and loneliness around her. She could feel the weight of the moment, but her love for life, her vibrant spirit, and her desire to make a difference sparked an idea. Suzette asked herself, “What if I could spread a little happiness and hope during these times? What if I could make people smile again by delivering something warm and comforting, like homemade baked goods?”
Driven by this thought, she went home after work one evening and began baking a batch of Italian “S” cookies—a family recipe known for its simple, comforting sweetness. The next day, she brought bags of these cookies to her co-workers, not expecting much beyond a small gesture of kindness. But the effect was immediate. Her colleagues’ faces lit up with joy as they received the homemade treats. For a brief moment, the heaviness lifted, and there were smiles and laughter instead.
The following day, Suzette’s boss approached her, saying his wife absolutely loved the cookies and wanted to know if they could purchase a dozen more. This small request was the turning point. Other co-workers overheard, and soon enough, more orders started pouring in. What began as a one-time gift of baked goods became something more. People craved not only the cookies but also the happiness and comfort they brought during such a difficult time.
That evening, as Suzette baked order after order of cookies, she realized that something special was happening. Her kitchen wasn’t just a place for baking; it was becoming a space where joy, love, and creativity came together to bring hope to others. With music playing in the background—her usual source of inspiration—she found herself energized and completely immersed in the process. “I’m rockin’ this kitchen!” she thought. And just like that, the name “Rockin This Kitchen” was born.
This newfound bakery began as a small, word-of-mouth operation. But in a matter of months, what started with just 4 people rapidly expanded to a community of over 1,000 customers. People were ordering not just cookies but breads, pastries, and cakes for birthdays and weddings. Suzette’s baking became synonymous with comfort and celebration, even in the toughest times. Four years later, her bakery had grown into a full-fledged operation, offering everything from Italian baked goods to full catering services for business lunches.
Suzette’s journey from a simple act of kindness to launching “Rockin This Kitchen” was powered by her love for people and her passion for baking. Even in a time of crisis, she found a way to bring smiles to others, turning her kitchen into a hub of creativity, joy, and hope. Today, her business stands as a testament to the power of compassion, creativity, and the human spirit.
Why the name “Rockin This Kitchen?”
Suzette’s bakery & Catering name, “Rockin This Kitchen,” emerged as a tribute to her unique blend of artistic talents and passions. As a musician, singer, and songwriter, music is at the core of her creative process. While she bakes, her kitchen comes alive with the sounds of her favorite tracks, filling the space with energy, joy, passion and rhythm. This musical atmosphere isn’t just background noise; it’s a crucial part of her baking ritual. When she steps away from the oven, she goes to her music room to immerse herself in jamming sessions on her guitar, drums, or piano and sings. These moments of musical expression recharge her, allowing her to pour even more creativity and passion into her culinary work.
Her love for painting also plays a significant role in her artistry. Suzette’s cakes aren’t just desserts—they’re edible works of art. She carefully crafts intricate designs, blending colors and textures with the same care and imagination she brings to her canvas. Each cake is a testament to her dual talents in music and art, reflecting a harmony of flavors, aesthetics, and creative vision.
The name “Rockin This Kitchen” encapsulates this synergy. “Rockin” symbolizes the influence of music on her life, evoking the high-energy, soulful, and spontaneous atmosphere she cultivates in her workspace. “This Kitchen” emphasizes her personal connection to the place where all her passions—music, art, and baking—come together in a beautiful, creative fusion. Additionally, Suzette’s father, a poet and songwriter, remains a constant source of inspiration. His artistic spirit lives on in her work, influencing both her music and her bakery, making the name a tribute not just to her own talents but also to her family’s creative legacy.
In “Rockin This Kitchen,” Suzette has created more than just a bakery—it’s a vibrant space where sound, flavor, and visual art collide, resulting in delicious and artistic masterpieces.
Facebook: Rockin This Kitchen
Instagram: Rockin_This_Kitchen
Chef Suzette Phone: (602) 402-8634
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In my journey as a baker, three skills and areas of knowledge have been the most impactful: paying attention to detail, creativity, and organization with time management. These core abilities shaped the way I approach my work and helped me turn baking into both an art and a successful business.
Attention to Detail: Precision is key in baking. A baker must be able to measure ingredients accurately, follow recipes meticulously, and keep a close eye on timing. Even slight deviations in measurements or preparation can drastically change the final product, making attention to detail critical for consistency and quality. Whether it’s getting the exact texture of dough right or ensuring that every cake layer is even, this focus on detail ensures every product turns out just right.
Creativity: Baking isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about innovation. Creative bakers are always in high demand because they bring something unique to the table. From experimenting with new flavor combinations to designing artistic cakes, creativity keeps the process fresh and exciting. In my own experience, my artistic background in music and painting flows into my baking, allowing me to create visually stunning and delicious masterpieces that reflect both imagination and passion.
Organization and Time Management: In baking, timing is everything. Successful bakers must juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, from prepping ingredients to managing baking times for various items. Organization is crucial to ensure that each task is completed on schedule without rushing or missing a step. Time management allows me to balance complex orders—like coordinating a full day’s worth of bread, pastries, cakes, and catering. It’s not just about working fast but about working efficiently, ensuring everything is perfect and delivered on time.
Patience (Bonus Skill): Patience is the often overlooked but essential skill in baking. Whether it’s waiting for dough to rise, cakes to bake, or decorations to set, patience is required at every step. Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes, but taking the time to let things develop naturally ensures the best possible results. Patience has taught me to enjoy the process rather than just focusing on the outcome.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful moment in my life unfolded while I was working in a deli in Long Island, New York. I had no idea that a simple phone call from my father would change the course of my career and fulfill one of my greatest dreams. My parents were living in Indiana at the time, and one day, out of the blue, my dad called me and said, “I’m opening an Italian restaurant in Terre Haute, Indiana, and I want you to work side by side with me as a chef. I’d like you to become the General Manager of the kitchen. What do you think? Would you be interested?”
The moment I heard those words, my heart nearly burst with joy. It was the kind of call you dream of, but never expect to actually receive. The idea of working with my father, someone I deeply admired not only as a parent but as a skilled chef and mentor, was overwhelming. This was a man who had shaped my love for food, music, and creativity, and here he was, inviting me to join him in this new venture. Without hesitation, I said, “Absolutely, yes!” I knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Within days, I packed my bags and left New York, driving to Terre Haute, Indiana, with excitement and anticipation. It felt like the beginning of something truly special, and I wasn’t wrong. When I arrived, I stepped into my role as Chef Suzette, working side by side with my father in his Italian restaurant. But this was more than just a job—it was a dream come true. My father didn’t just teach me how to cook; he passed on his philosophy about life, leadership, and the importance of nurturing passion in everything you do.
In the kitchen, my father became my mentor in every sense of the word. He showed me the art of creating authentic Italian dishes, but more than that, he taught me how to lead, manage a team, and cultivate a positive environment. I learned that a kitchen wasn’t just a place for cooking—it was a place for creativity, growth, and collaboration. Under his guidance, I grew not only as a chef but also as a leader. He was my university, and I soaked in every lesson he offered, from technical skills to personal wisdom.
This experience transformed me into the chef I am today, but more importantly, it deepened my relationship with my father. The time we spent working together became the foundation for everything I would later go on to do. He shaped my approach to mentoring others, inspiring them to find their passion and creativity in the kitchen, just as he had done for me.
In every step of my journey, my father’s influence remains present. His belief in me, his mentorship, and the opportunity he gave me were the spark that ignited my passion for cooking and set me on the path to becoming a chef and mentor to others. That one phone call didn’t just change my career—it changed my life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: rockin_this_kitchen
- Facebook: Rockin This Kitchen Bakery
- Linkedin: Rockin This Kitchen Bakery
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