Kathia Joseph, a Miami Beach entrepreneur from Haiti, has transformed her career path multiple times over the years. Initially working as a translator in France, she ventured into the restaurant industry after moving to Miami. Her first business faced closure due to financial difficulties, but Joseph successfully pivoted it into a profitable hookah lounge. This experience laid the foundation for her next ventures, including Casa Matilda, a popular steakhouse that attracts celebrities and receives acclaim for its unique offerings. Joseph's journey reflects resilience and innovation, blending fresh cuisine with meticulous service.

Joseph’s transition from the translation industry to entrepreneurship began when she decided to open a restaurant in Miami Beach. Despite challenges such as navigating unfamiliar territory without formal education, securing funding, and adapting to unforeseen circumstances like the pandemic, she persevered. Her ability to adapt led to opening successful establishments like Matilda’s Kitchen and Casa Matilda. Recognizing the importance of supporting minority entrepreneurs, Joseph now extends her expertise through consulting services aimed at helping others navigate the complexities of the restaurant world.

Transitioning from Translation to Restaurant Ownership

Kathia Joseph's early life in Haiti and subsequent move to France set the stage for her remarkable career shift. Growing up bilingual, Joseph excelled academically and found work translating films and TV shows. By her late teens, she was translating episodes of popular Disney shows, earning significant income while balancing school commitments. Over time, she became integral to her team, mentoring new translators. However, personal loss prompted Joseph to reconsider her goals, leading her to relocate to Miami in pursuit of becoming an English screenwriter.

While in Miami, Joseph discovered a passion for cooking and opened her first restaurant, Blue Paris Bistro, despite lacking traditional qualifications. When faced with imminent closure during the pandemic, she innovatively converted the space into a hookah lounge, which proved highly lucrative. Unfortunately, rising rent costs eventually forced her to close this venture. Yet, Joseph remained undeterred, opening Matilda’s Kitchen shortly thereafter. Each step forward reinforced her belief in the power of persistence and creativity in overcoming obstacles.

Empowering Minority Entrepreneurs Through Consulting

Beyond running successful restaurants, Joseph channels her experiences into empowering others within the entrepreneurial community. As a Black woman operating in predominantly white industries, she acknowledges the vital role played by supportive customers who champion her ventures. This awareness fuels her commitment to fostering diversity in entrepreneurship. Joseph now offers consulting services focused on guiding aspiring restaurateurs through the often tumultuous process of establishing and maintaining their businesses.

Joseph emphasizes the importance of accurate information and mentorship in achieving success. Many aspiring entrepreneurs face misinformation or lack access to reliable resources. Drawing upon her own trials and triumphs, she provides tailored advice designed to help others avoid common pitfalls. Whether assisting with menu creation, marketing strategies, or financial planning, Joseph strives to ensure that underrepresented groups gain equal opportunities in the competitive restaurant landscape. Her dedication underscores a broader mission to create an inclusive environment where all can thrive.