Welcome to the first edition of The CSQ Collective, our monthly newsletter. Thank you for signing up to follow our journey as The Culinary Square brings affordable, high-quality kitchen space to Anne Arundel County. Read on for updates, insights into our industry, shout-outs, news on where we will be around the county, and maybe even a great recipe now and then!
Welcome to the first edition of The CSQ Collective, our monthly newsletter! Thank you for signing up to follow our journey as The Culinary Square brings affordable, high-quality kitchen space to Anne Arundel County. Read on for updates, insights into our industry, shout-outs, news on where we will be around the county, and maybe even a great recipe now and then!
Have You Shared Your Voice? Take Our Demand Survey Today!
Your Voice Matters, and Here's Why ...
We're building The Culinary Square around your needs, but can only succeed with your input. Your feedback directly shapes our resources, equipment offerings, and support services. Every response helps us create a more valuable kitchen collective for all our members.
This month, you'll find our team buzzing around local farmers' markets and food truck rallies, connecting with passionate food entrepreneurs just like you. We're on a mission to find those creative culinary minds who could truly flourish with the right kitchen resources and community support.
Keep an eye out for our friendly faces—we'd love to chat about your culinary dreams over some sunshine and street food. And if you spot us first, please come say hello!
From Kitchen Dreams to Economic Engines: How Shared Kitchens Transform Communities
Did you know shared kitchens like ours create 4-6 jobs per food business they support? The ripple effect of accessible commercial kitchen space extends far beyond delicious meals—it builds sustainable local economies, creates meaningful employment, and keeps food dollars circulating in our community.
Curious about the hard numbers behind the impact? Discover the surprising economic power of shared kitchens in a fascinating study from Local Food Economics.
The Bell House Catering Shares More Than Just Incredible Food
When our founder Gretchen first approached The Bell House Catering—notepad in hand and research questions prepared—she never expected to find herself elbow-deep in dishwater. Yet Kelly Bell welcomed her not just as an observer, but as part of the team. What began as reconnaissance into the daily rhythms of food entrepreneurs transformed into a masterclass in catering excellence, community building, and the unmistakable magic that happens when passion meets professionalism.
The Bell House Catering embodies everything we aspire to cultivate at The Culinary Square—generosity of knowledge, dedication to craft, and food created with genuine love. Kelly doesn't guard her culinary secrets but shares them freely, understanding that a rising tide truly does lift all boats.
Her legendary homemade ricotta exemplifies this philosophy—deceptively simple yet transcendent in its creamy perfection. Each spoonful somehow communicates "you matter" to whoever is fortunate enough to taste it. (PSSSST ... we will be sharing samples of Kelly's ricotta at the AACC Spring Fair on May 17th. Come get some!)
Our partnership with Kelly represents the collaborative spirit at the heart of a thriving food community. Her mentorship has profoundly shaped our vision for The Culinary Square, demonstrating how seasoned professionals can elevate newcomers while strengthening the entire culinary ecosystem.
Kelly, from all of us—thank you for opening your kitchen, sharing your wisdom, and showing us what true culinary leadership looks like. Your generosity nourishes far more than just appetites.
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