Mac-O-Licious

Mac-O-licious is a small restaurant in the Valley Village area. It was founded as a food truck by Kelly Chapman in 2012, and it has successfully grown into a beautiful storefront in less than two years. After receiving a loan from VEDC, as well as business training and consulting services from the Women’s Business Center, Chapman was able to take her restaurant to a whole new level. Since the opening of her first storefront Chapman's cheesy comfort food has received nationwide notoriety. Mac-O-licious has now been featured on CNBC’s Restaurant Startup, as well as Locale Magazine, and the Real Mom of SFV blog to mention a few.

One of Chapman’s secrets of success is her constant effort and passion to serve the community. Chapman has hired 9 individuals from varied ethnic backgrounds, many of whom were unemployed or homeless before having the opportunity to work for Mac-O-licious. The comfort food, combined with the Mac-O-licious unique team creates a welcoming environment that customers fully enjoy and appreciate.

Chapman’s support to the community is furthered evidenced by the creation of Kelly Chapman Ministries. Chapman proudly reveals: "We feed the homeless in partnership with LA Family Housing.  Plus, we have fed over 20K low income individuals via the Kelly Chapman Ministries Mobile Pantry, funded by Mac-O-licious."

Naturally, like all businesses, there have been challenges faced by Mac-O-licious such as finding an affordable strategic place to open a storefront. However, the loyal team that Chapman has built and surrounded herself with, combined with consulting and access to capital provided by VEDC has allowed her to overcome the challenges. Mac-O-licious is now able to offer dine-in services, carry out, delivery, and nationwide shipping. Additionally, they have marked their presence in big events such as weddings, film shoots, and corporate lunches.