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When it comes to serving up great food and vibrant energy in South Monroe, Cravings South Monroe stands out—and it’s all thanks to owner Angelique Drew, a hometown entrepreneur with heart, hustle, and a contagious passion for her community. On episode six of Small Business Stories, hosted by Louisiana Catalyst and the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Drew shared her incredible journey from young hustler to restaurant powerhouse.
From Investment to Passion
What began as a simple business investment quickly became something far more personal. “It was supposed to be something I could walk away from,” Drew admitted. “But it became my baby—and that baby needs feeding daily.”
Cravings, now seven years strong, has become a local staple for fast, fresh American-style food. Known for popular dishes like the Louisiana Blend and the lesser-known—but fan-favorite—shrimp burger, the restaurant thrives on consistency and customer connection. “We don’t try to change too much,” said Drew. “We stick to what we know—and do it well.”
Rooted in South Monroe
A South Monroe native, Drew has a deep connection to her neighborhood. “My whole life, I’ve roamed this area,” she said. “It’s not just where I do business. It’s my community, and my heart is in it.”
This personal connection shows in every detail of Cravings. From the warm greetings at the door to the consistent quality of the food, Drew ensures every customer feels valued. “There are a lot of restaurants in Monroe. When someone chooses to come to Cravings, we make sure they feel like we truly want them there.”
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Running a restaurant comes with no shortage of challenges—from staffing issues to inflation to the trials of navigating a pandemic. Drew faced each one with resilience.
“You have to be a chameleon in this business,” she said. “You can’t sit and dwell on problems. You’ve got to figure out how to solve them.”
That mindset carried Cravings through the tough years of COVID-19 and ongoing staffing struggles. Her advice to young entrepreneurs? “Dream big, but start by learning every aspect of your business. No one in your business should know more than you.”
The Spirit of a Serial Entrepreneur
Cravings is just one piece of Drew’s entrepreneurial story. From selling Elmer’s Chips in junior high to founding a tax business in 2008 and dabbling in real estate, Drew embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship. “Some people just have it,” she said. “That drive to keep moving, to keep building.”
She credits her mother as her biggest influence. “She didn’t teach life lessons with words, but I watched her strength, how she managed a household. That’s where I get it from.”
Looking Ahead
Drew sees Cravings’ original location on Winnsboro Road as a flagship model. Her goal is to strengthen systems and operations there before exploring future expansion. “I’m still learning every day,” she said. “But yes, expansion might be in the future.”
Her story reflects more than business success—it’s a lesson in leadership, gratitude, and joy. “I start every day with affirmations,” she said. “I make my day. No one else molds it for me.”
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