about us

Moreno McCalpin is a proud son of South Memphis whose culinary journey began in the heart of his great-grandmother’s kitchen. Raised by the woman who taught him the value of soul, seasoning, and serving others, Moreno’s earliest lessons in cooking were rooted in love, tradition, and storytelling through food.

A graduate of Central High School, Moreno went on to study chemistry at Lane College. Ironically, it was during his time at Lane — far from any professional kitchen — that his passion for cooking truly began to simmer. 

Years later, inspired by the memory and legacy of his great-grandmother, he launched a catering business that honored her spirit. His dedication to flavor, family, and Southern roots recently earned him a spot as a quarterfinalist in Carla Hall’s Favorite Chef competition — a national platform that validated not just his skill, but his calling.

Though he didn’t take home the title, the experience reignited his vision to launch his own line of spice blends — Mane Street Seasonings. The name is a playful nod to Memphis culture: a twist on how Memphians greet each other (“What’s up, mane?”) and a tribute to the iconic Main Street that runs through the city’s historic downtown.

With Mane Street Seasonings, Moreno is sharing the bold, soulful flavors of Memphis with the world — one shake, one story, and one plate at a time.