QUINCY RANDOLPH, 23 / Chef/Barista, Roasters Next Door (RND) Coffee Lounge
Originally from Chicago, Quincy Randolph is now a chef at RND Coffee, with a culinary arts degree. As half of the “Coffee Brothers” (his brother and RND founder, Steffon, is the other half), Randolph’s unique menu creations include items such as a Black Garlic and Maple Latte, Dijon-Horseradish and Truffle Bagels and Nori Seaweed brownies. His nitro beer can be found in various restaurants and stores in town. He has participated in various culinary pop-ups in the community, and actively participates in setting up events such as the Wasena 100th Year Neighborhood Celebration. He is also involved with local artists to help design items like t-shirts and store décor. For Randolph, it’s all about bringing the community together to do good things. “I think having people from the millennial generation like myself, and my brother helps inspire others, and specifically the generation below us,” Randolph says. “Our story thus far shows that if you’re a genuine person who is focused, but also cares about people, others will support you and want to work with you.”
- Started RND Coffee Roasters in Roanoke, VA
- Chef at Blackbird in Chicago, IL
- Culinary Arts Degree
- Prep Cook for Sister Cities International Area
From the Nomination: “Randolph and his brother, Steffon, have been making Wasena a community by getting involved in the community, putting people first. He’s turned an area around from a pretty broken-down area into a community center. He remembers every customer’s name. He creates new menu items that are above and beyond anything else this community offers. His coffee is the best in town, and he has precise methods for making his coffee. He has a kind spirit and will help those who are less fortunate. He encourages collaboration and connection and really is making Wasena a home.”
What do you love about Roanoke?
Randolph: “I’ve lived in Roanoke for less than a year so far, but everyone I’ve met so far has been incredibly kind. There’s a level of hospitality here everyone; even strangers you’ve never met before genuinely want to see newcomers do well and thrive.”
