Meeting the East Coast Eats Team

Co-owners being goofy before an event.

About Us

Since 2017, East Coast Eats has become the most renowned food catering service in the Atlanta, Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Greater Triad North Carolina areas. Rooted in creativity and famous for flawless execution, East Coast Eats presents unparalleled tastes and haute cuisine worthy of the most distinguished palates. We cater events ranging from romantic and intimate to festive and fabulous. Our calendar fills up quickly, so kindly speak with us early in the planning process to ensure availability.

Yanik Hayles

Co-Founder/Executive Chef  

Yanik Hayles is a co-owner of East Coast Eats, LLC. Yanik is an alumna of Johnson & Wales University with degrees in Culinary Arts and Event/Business Management. Yanik comes from a Jamaican background, and one of the main cultures from the islands is food.

“I’ve been cooking for as long as I can remember. It all started with my easy-bake oven; I made so many meals out of it. Since I was a child, I’ve been helping my mom in the kitchen and also coming up with my own unique creations.”

Growing up, Yanik’s mother always saw her passion for food. She says, “I knew you would be doing something involved with food because you were the only child who got excited over a whisk and other cooking equipment.” Yanik comes from a family of great cooks on both sides, so the talent is literally flowing through her veins. Yanik wants to share her talents and passion with others so they can experience joy and happiness through good food.

“My favorite part about cooking is when people taste my food and their face just lights up! My main goal is to use my talents to build a foundation that can someday give back to the community and help to feed the hungry.”

Julian Taylor

Co-Founder/Executive Chef  

Julian Taylor: A Culinary Visionary

Julian Taylor is a Co-Owner of East Coast Eats, LLC, where he has successfully combined his culinary expertise with his business acumen to create a thriving dining experience. His journey into the culinary world began with a solid educational foundation; he graduated from the prestigious Johnson & Wales University, where he earned degrees in Culinary Arts and Food Service Management. This institution is renowned for producing some of the best chefs and hospitality professionals in the industry, and Julian's time there equipped him with essential skills and knowledge that he would later apply in his career.

Julian's passion for cooking ignited at a young age. "Since I was about 8, I've been fascinated by food," he reflects, recalling the pivotal moments that shaped his aspirations. Growing up, he spent countless hours watching the Food Network, captivated by the creativity and artistry involved in cooking. The vibrant personalities of chefs and the delicious dishes they prepared fueled his dream of not only owning a restaurant but also becoming a chef who could inspire others through his culinary creations.

Throughout his impressive culinary career, Julian has had the unique opportunity to work at one of the world's top sporting events, The Masters, held annually in Augusta, Georgia. This prestigious golf tournament has always held a special place in his heart; as a child growing up in Georgia, he would watch the tournament with wide-eyed admiration, dreaming of the day he would be part of it. Although life took him on a different path, he seized the chance to contribute to the event, showcasing his skills and passion for food to a captivated audience.

Bringing joy to others through food has been a driving force in Julian's life. He believes that food has the power to connect people, evoke memories, and create lasting experiences. This belief has helped him find his purpose in the culinary world, as he strives to craft dishes that not only satisfy hunger but also delight the senses and uplift spirits. His commitment to excellence in the kitchen is matched only by his desire to give back to the community.

Looking ahead, Julian's main goal in life extends beyond his current endeavors in the restaurant industry. He is determined to create a non-profit organization aimed at guiding youth into the hospitality field, empowering them to become successful entrepreneurs. Julian understands the challenges faced by young individuals in pursuing careers in this dynamic industry, and he is passionate about providing support, mentorship, and resources to help them navigate their paths. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, he hopes to inspire the next generation of culinary talent and hospitality leaders, ensuring that they have the tools they need to thrive in their careers.

Through his journey, Julian Taylor exemplifies the spirit of determination and passion that defines a true culinary visionary. His story is one of hard work, ambition, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others through the art of cooking.