Chef Ronnell Simmons – NJ Licensed Culinary Educator | Chef | Founder of Nikas Catering LLC
Back To The Table Culinary Academy
Culinary training and soul food education led by NJ Licensed Culinary Educator & Chef Ronnell Simmons.
Nikas Catering LLC is now both a premier catering service and a transformative education project. We provide certified instruction that goes beyond hobbyist teaching—focusing on health transformation from a cancer-survivor perspective and a mission to restore connection via the 'Back To The Table' programs.
Certified Culinary Education
ServSafe-informed, professional-standard teaching for home cooks, students, and ministry leaders.
Healthy Soul Food & Nutrition
Recipes and techniques that honor culture while supporting better health and healing.
Community & Family at the Table
Programs designed for families, churches, schools, and community groups.
"As a NJ State Licensed Culinary Educator and Chef, I teach families how to bring health, culture, and connection back to the table."
Family Table Traditions
Learn the art of preparing a heart-warming 3-course meal designed to encourage intentional gathering and lasting legacy.
Weekly Cooking Demo Replays
Biscuits and Bread Mastery
Discover the patience of bread-making as a spiritual practice, from feeding the starter to the final golden crust.
Reclaiming Faith & Flavor
A deep dive into comfort recipes that nourish the soul, featuring our signature gumbo and stories of leadership.
Explore My Life's Journey
GO TO THE WATER
A Powerful 9/11 Survivor Memoir
Go to the water.”
That voice led him through the Staten Island Ferry, across the Goethals Bridge, through fear, confusion, and shock — and ultimately back home to his wife and children.
More than a 9/11 survival story, this powerful memoir reveals:
• The emotional reality of surviving the World Trade Center attacks
• The long-term trauma and PTSD that followed
• The spiritual strength that carried him through
• The journey from survival to healing and purpose
Twenty-five years later, Chef Ronnell Simmons shares his testimony publicly for the first time — honoring those who lost their lives while inspiring others to listen to faith, cherish family, and never take life for granted.
GO TO THE WATER is a story of survival, faith, resilience, and purpose after tragedy.
MY CHEF JOURNEY THROUGH THE KITCHENS
Mama’s Kitchen to My Calling
From the heart of Newark to professional kitchens across New Jersey, Chef Ronnell Simmons shares an inspiring story of faith, family, perseverance, and purpose through food.
My Chef Journey Through the Kitchens: From Mama’s Kitchen to My Calling takes readers on a powerful journey from childhood memories in Mama’s kitchen to becoming a respected culinary educator, caterer, and community leader. Known as “The Biscuit Man,” Chef Ronnell blends heartfelt storytelling with real-life lessons learned through struggle, sacrifice, and success.
Menu Highlights
Chicken Gumbo
Sweet and Spicy Meatloaf
Mean Mixed Greens
Teriyaki Grilled Salmon
Eggplant Parmigiana
Mama Biscuits
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover how 'Back to the Table' workshops and our tailored catering services bring faith, flavorful meals, and family connection back to the shared table.
What makes a 'Back to the Table' workshop unique?
Our workshops pair comfort recipes with faith-based stories. They are designed to equip people with both culinary skills and the intentionality needed to build legacies around the dining table.
How can I book your catering services for a church or family event?
Booking is simple through our contact portal. We specialize in holiday celebrations and family gatherings, focusing on intentional menus that foster a warm, artisanal atmosphere for all guests.
Are your recipes and catering services health-conscious?
Yes. Chef Ronnell Simmons emphasizes both flavor and health, offering options like Mean Mixed Greens and Teriyaki Grilled Salmon to ensure your shared table is both nourishing and soulful.
Can I preorder 'My Chef Journey Through the Kitchens'?
Certainly. Our latest memoir and cookbook is available on Amazon, featuring comfort recipes and stories that help reclaim the table as a place of healing, leadership, and connection.
Client Reviews
“The catering for our church banquet was exceptional. Chef Ronnell doesn't just serve food; he serves a mission of connection and grace.”
Sarah J., Community Banquet
“Back to the Table was a transformative experience for our family. Every dish felt like a warm embrace, rooted in faith and flavor.”
David M., Workshop Alumna
“Nikas Catering provided the perfect spread for our holiday celebration. It is a true blessing to see culinary excellence paired with such intentional heart.”
The Williams Family, Private Event
“Our table shifted from a place of quick meals to a sanctuary for storytelling, leadership, and connection.”
The Mitchell Family, Workshop Alumna
“Reclaiming the dining table saved our family’s communication. It is the most powerful tool we now possess.”
Pastor Mike R., Community Church Leader
“Legacy is not built in office boardrooms, but between the breaking of bread and the deep exchange of life.”
The Henderson Family, Heritage Seekers
Professional Services
Teaching the art and heart of cooking to generations. Reclaiming the shared table through intentional, flavorful experiences.
ServSafe Instructor & Proctor
Author & Speaker
Equipping culinary leaders with industry-standard food safety certification and expertise.
Inspiring audiences with stories that foster connection and bring families back to the table.
Available For:
• Culinary Workshops
• ServSafe Certification Classes
• Church & Community Cooking Training
• Youth Culinary Mentorship
• Catering & Private Events
Contact:
chefronnellsimmons@backtothetable.biz
Nikas Catering LLC/Backtothetable.biz
Speaking & Workshops with Chef Ronnell Simmons
For Churches, Schools, Community Groups & Organizations
Chef Ronnell Simmons
NJ Licensed Culinary Educator | Certified Servsafe Instructor and proctor| Founder of Nikas Catering LLC & Published Author
Speaking Topics
- Bringing Families Back To The Table
- Faith, Food & Purpose
- Cooking As A Life Skill
- Healthy Eating After Life Challenges
- Culinary Career Inspiration
Programs Available
- Keynote Presentations
- Cooking Demonstrations
- Culinary Workshops
- Youth Culinary Programs
- ServSafe Training
Book
My Chef Journey Through the Kitchens — Available on Amazon
Contact
chefronnellsimmons@backtothetable.biz
973-283-5855
BackToTheTable.biz
Book Your Event with Nikas Catering LLC
Whether you're planning a Wedding, Private Dinner, Corporate gathering, or Church event, we bring intentional, flavorful meals to your table. Please submit your request below, and we will respond within 24 hours.
Phone: 973-283-5855
Email: chefronnellsimmons@backtothetable.biz
Service Area: Newark and surrounding area
Speaking & Workshops with Chef Ronnell Simmons
For Churches, Schools, Community Groups & Organizations
Chef Ronnell Simmons
NJ Licensed Culinary Educator | Chef | Founder of Nikas Catering LLC
Speaking Topics
- Bringing Families Back To The Table
- Faith, Food & Purpose
- Cooking As A Life Skill
- Healthy Eating After Life Challenges
- Culinary Career Inspiration
Programs Available
- Keynote Presentations
- Cooking Demonstrations
- Culinary Workshops
- Youth Culinary Programs
- ServSafe Training
Book
My Chef Journey Through the Kitchens — Available on Amazon
chefronnellsimmons@backtothetable.biz
973-283-5855
BackToTheTable.biz
Contact
LEGACY COLLECTIVE
Discover the artisanal settings and meaningful interactions captured through our 'Back to the Table' workshops. Each frame tells a story of connection, leadership, and the timeless art of gathering.