Today we’d like to introduce you to Chassitti Clark.
Hi Chassitti , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My love for food has always been rooted in family, culture, and community. My grandmother, Clara Mae, is the best cook I’ve ever known. Some of my favorite childhood memories are sitting in her kitchen, watching her cook from scratch and eagerly waiting to enjoy whatever she made. She taught me that food is more than something you eat—it’s how you show love, preserve traditions, and bring people together.
I was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, and raised in Milwaukee, where my Southern roots and Midwestern upbringing shaped my appreciation for great food and hospitality. In 2014, I moved to Madison, and over the years I’ve watched the city evolve as new restaurants opened and people came and went. I was constantly asked, “Where should I eat?” and I realized there wasn’t a single resource dedicated to highlighting Madison’s incredible food scene—especially its hidden gems, Black-owned businesses, and family-owned restaurants.
This led me to set up @theblackdiner in August 2021. When I launched the page, I kept my identity completely hidden so the emphasis would be on the food, not on me. However, as the page started to grow and more people became interested in my recommendations, I realized I could no longer remain behind the camera. My followers wanted to get to know the person sharing these experiences, and by appearing in front of the lens, I was able to form genuine relationships with both my audience and the local businesses I really enjoy supporting.
Although I proudly represent Milwaukee, I often say that while Milwaukee has no shortage of amazing restaurants, Madison is full of incredible places waiting to be discovered. My goal has always been to help locals and visitors uncover those hidden gems while celebrating the people behind them. What started as a restaurant recommendation page has naturally evolved into a guide for experiencing Madison—from brunch spots and coffee shops to festivals, local events, and unique experiences that make the city special.
Today, I’m proud to be a five-year Yelp Elite and was honored as a Yelp Elite Superstar in 2024. As a Hummingbird content creator, I’ve partnered with brands including Dinnerly, Slumberland, Candy Cloud, Portillo’s, and Vacation Sunscreen. I also served as a Hummingbird Gardener, where I helped organize quarterly events and meetups throughout Madison and Milwaukee that bring creators and community members together.
Beyond content creation, I’m also a member of the Madison Hype Team, where I help showcase everything that makes Madison such an incredible place to live, visit, and explore. Whether I’m highlighting a neighborhood restaurant, promoting a local event, or sharing the next must-visit spot, my mission remains the same: to amplify small businesses, celebrate diverse voices, and inspire people to experience the very best Wisconsin has to offer. My story is proof that a simple passion for good food can grow into a platform that builds community, creates opportunities, and helps others discover places they may have otherwise overlooked.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, my journey has gone smoothly, and I truly appreciate the support from my community and local businesses. From the start, I decided that @theblackdiner would highlight the best of Madison’s food scene instead of criticizing businesses.
I choose not to post negative restaurant reviews because I know how much work goes into every meal. Restaurants are often someone’s dream, their life’s work, and their biggest investment. Anyone can have a bad day, whether it’s a slow kitchen, a new staff member, or a simple error. I believe in giving people grace and understand that one bad experience doesn’t define a whole business.
However, there is one thing I will not ignore. If I see or hear about behavior that is racist, discriminatory, sexist, or otherwise harmful, I think it’s important to speak out. I’ve only ever warned people about one restaurant, and it wasn’t because of the food or service. It was due to a racist incident. I believe people should know if a business treats others without dignity and respect.
My platform is about positivity, community, and supporting local businesses, but I also believe in accountability. I will always celebrate great food and great people. But if a business chooses discrimination instead of hospitality, I will use my platform to let my audience know and encourage them to support places where everyone is welcomed and respected.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Professionally, I wear many hats, but every role I take on is centered around serving others and making a meaningful impact in my community.
I serve as a Program and Policy Analyst for the Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin, the state agency responsible for regulating electric, natural gas, and water utilities. In this capacity, I investigate consumer complaints related to utility services and assist customers in resolving issues with their providers. I also review and analyze utility rate case dockets when companies request rate increases, ensuring that proposals are equitable, transparent, and affordable for Wisconsin residents while balancing the needs of utilities and the communities they serve.
In addition to my work with the PSC, I am a Behavior Therapist with the Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP), where I provide individualized support to children on the autism spectrum. Facilitating communication for a nonverbal child for the first time remains among the most rewarding experiences of my career. These moments reinforce the importance of patience, compassion, and consistency.
I am also continuing my education at Ball State University, pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education with concentrations in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Autism. I value lifelong learning, as I believe that increased knowledge enhances my ability to positively impact the individuals and communities I serve.
Additionally, I am the founder of C3 Marketing Solutions LLC, where I offer social media strategy and digital communications support to local political candidates and elected officials. I take pride in assisting candidates as they share their vision, connect with voters, and build authentic online communities. Witnessing a candidate I have supported earn the trust of their community and succeed in an election is especially rewarding.
While many people know me through @theblackdiner, my work extends far beyond content creation. Whether I’m helping a family resolve a utility issue, advocating for fair utility rates, supporting a child as they develop communication skills, or helping a local candidate tell their story, my goal is always the same: to make a positive difference.
What I’m most proud of isn’t a title or an award—it’s the impact of my work. I’m proud when I help keep utility services fair and affordable for Wisconsin families. I’m proud when one of my clients with autism communicates something independently for the first time. I’m proud when a candidate I’ve supported earns the opportunity to serve their community. Those moments remind me that meaningful work is measured by the lives you touch.
Colleagues and acquaintances describe me as hardworking, diligent, fair, and deeply committed to excellence. My ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds while balancing careers in public service, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and content creation distinguishes me. Although these roles may appear distinct, they share a common purpose: improving the lives of others. Whether analyzing complex policy issues, advocating for consumers, mentoring a child, supporting small businesses, or amplifying local voices, I approach each opportunity with integrity, empathy, and a genuine commitment to leaving my community better than I found it.
What’s next?
I’m excited about what the future holds, both personally and professionally. One of my biggest goals is to graduate from Ball State University with my master’s degree in Special Education, continue building my expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis, and successfully pass the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam. Becoming a BCBA will allow me to expand my impact and continue advocating for children and families affected by autism.
A major goal of mine is to use my experiences in the autism community to create greater representation and support for children and families who are often overlooked. I hope to write a children’s book series focused on children with autism, creating stories where children can see themselves represented, feel understood, and celebrate the unique ways they experience the world. I also want to become a stronger advocate for Black children with autism, helping bring awareness to the barriers many families face and ensuring that children from all backgrounds have access to support, resources, and opportunities to thrive.
I’m also looking forward to continuing to grow @theblackdiner into an even larger platform. My goal is to increase its reach beyond Madison by continuing to showcase Wisconsin’s incredible food scene, hidden gems, Black-owned businesses, and local experiences. I want to create more opportunities to partner with restaurants, tourism organizations, and brands while inspiring people to explore the communities right in their own backyard.
No matter where my career takes me, my mission will remain the same: to use my skills, voice, and platform to serve others, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for people who deserve to be seen and heard. I believe the best is still ahead, and I’m excited to continue growing, learning, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: theblackdiner on instgram
- Facebook: The Black Diner on facebook
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chassitti-clark/
- Yelp: Chass C on yelp
