Meet Kim Ann Soto | Southern Baker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kim Ann Soto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kim Ann, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Hi! I was born and raised in the Boot—New Orleans, Louisiana! My upbringing played a huge role in my decision to start my own business. Growing up in New Orleans, food wasn’t just something we ate—it was part of every celebration, every gathering, and every memory. It was always about more than just flavor; it was about culture, music, family, and that deep-rooted New Orleans tradition.

I felt a strong calling to keep those traditions alive through authentic Southern baking. Starting my own business was my way of honoring where I come from while sharing that love and legacy with the world. New Orleans shaped not only my palate but also my passion, and I knew I wanted to bring that same warmth and soul to others through my products. I’ve owned and operated three successful bakeries and currently ave an on line presence selling baked products.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work is deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and passion. As the founder of Queen Zuri, I specialize in authentic Southern desserts—especially my signature Southern banana pudding and other baked goods that carry the spirit of New Orleans in every bite. What sets me apart is that my desserts aren’t just made from recipes—they’re made from memories, stories, and soul. Every dish is a celebration of heritage, made with love and tested to ensure it delivers on both flavor and quality.

I’m most proud of staying true to my roots while building something that reflects who I am. I didn’t start this journey with a roadmap or a big budget—just a dream, a vision, and a lot of faith. It hasn’t always been easy. Like many small business owners, I’ve faced challenges with funding, scaling, and navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. But my resilience comes from watching generations before me create something from nothing. I leaned on my community, stayed consistent, kept showing up, and reminded myself why I started.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way are:

Stay authentic—people can taste the difference when it’s made with love and truth.
Know your worth—don’t be afraid to charge for your time, talent, and tradition.
You can’t do everything alone—find your tribe, seek mentorship, and build a solid foundation.
What I want the world to know about me and my brand is this: Queen Zuri is more than dessert. It’s a reminder that food can tell a story, bring comfort, and connect people. I’m preserving the flavor of the South, one bite at a time. My goal is to see my Southern pudding and other goods in airports, supermarkets, and grab-and-go spots across the country—so wherever you are, you can always get a taste of New Orleans.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Dallas, TX for a week, I’d make sure they got the perfect mix of Southern charm, big-city vibes, culture, good eats, and unforgettable fun. Here’s a short, vibrant week-long itinerary that captures the heart of Dallas through my eyes:

Day 1: Welcome to Dallas – Kick It Off Southern Style
Lunch at Pecan Lodge (Deep Ellum) – Legendary Texas BBQ. The brisket and mac & cheese? Life-changing.
Stroll through Deep Ellum – Check out the colorful murals, local shops, and live music spots.
Evening drinks at The Rustic – Great outdoor vibe, Texas-sized cocktails, and often live music.
Day 2: Culture & Soul
Breakfast at Bread Winners Café (Uptown) – A cozy spot with amazing brunch.
Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza – A must-see for history lovers.
Walk through Klyde Warren Park – Grab snacks from the food trucks and enjoy downtown views.
Dinner at Ellen’s (West End) – Southern comfort food done right.
Day 3: Treat Yo’ Self
Spa day at The Joule Hotel Spa – For luxury and deep relaxation.
Afternoon shopping at NorthPark Center – High-end and local boutiques.
Dinner at Town Hearth – Fancy steakhouse with a disco ball and even a motorcycle inside.
Nightcap at Monarch – Rooftop bar with stunning skyline views.
Day 4: Black Excellence & Hidden Gems
Brunch at Kessler Baking Studio – Grab pastries and chat with locals in Oak Cliff.
Visit the African American Museum at Fair Park – Rich culture and inspiring exhibits.
Dinner at Roots Southern Table (Farmers Branch) – Chef Tiffany Derry’s upscale Southern cuisine. A whole vibe.
Day 5: A Little Adventure
Drive to Arlington – Spend the day at Six Flags Over Texas or AT&T Stadium Tour (for Cowboys fans).
Late-night tacos at Velvet Taco (Knox/Henderson) – Open late and always hits the spot.
Day 6: Chill & Connect
Breakfast at La La Land Kind Café – Cute, Instagrammable, and positive vibes only.
Visit the Dallas Arboretum – Peaceful, beautiful gardens with views of White Rock Lake.
Picnic by the lake or paddle boating.
Dinner at Tei-An (Arts District) – Japanese fine dining with some of the best soba noodles around.
Day 7: Sunday Funday Send-Off
Gospel Brunch at House of Blues – Food, music, and soul all in one place.
Visit Bishop Arts District – Grab souvenirs, sweets at Emporium Pies, and shop local.
Early dinner at Norma’s Café – Classic Southern cooking to end the trip on a delicious note.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my brother Mark Johnson who is a master chief who has supported me from day one. He is my number one cheerleader and business partner. I would also like to shout out to Wendy Teele at NBC in Stamford, CT who gave me my first corporate contact. She believed in me from day one and wanted to see my business thrive.

Website: https://www.queenzuri.com

Instagram: @KimTheKAKEQUEEN

Facebook: Queen Zuri

Youtube: Queen Zuri