Creshonda A. Smith - The Takeout

Location

Cleveland, Ohio

Expertise

Viral Food Trends, Budget-Friendly Meal Prep, Culinary Science & Food Myths

Creshonda lived in Italy for over a decade, gaining a deep understanding of the country's food culture and how it contrasts with American cuisine.
She has written over 400 restaurant reviews for various food news outlets, establishing herself as an expert in dining experiences and food trends.
With a background as a former clinical social worker, Creshonda brings a unique perspective to food writing, applying her understanding of human behavior to her culinary insights.

Experience

Creshonda has been a professional writer for a little over a decade. She started out doing freelance work, specializing in lifestyle topics, and was particularly interested in food and travel. She has earned over $20K as a Top-Rated freelancer through Upwork, and she has dabbled in various forms of writing, including, but not limited to: Copywriting, Features, Ghostwriting, Blogging, Creative Writing, SEO Writing, and Food and Culture Feature Journalism. Creshonda continues to take online courses to improve her skills as a writer, and she has many bylines across diverse topics such as fashion, travel, technology, business, personal finance, entertainment, and more. She joined Static Media full-time in 2024, and she hopes her passion for food and trending topics will propel her to create news articles that will resonate with readers.

Education

Creshonda has bachelor's and master's degrees in Clinical Social Work from Ohio State University.

The Takeout Editorial Policies

The Takeout’s industry-leading editorial coverage is the result of collaboration between writers and editors with a wide array of experience and expertise in the world of food and drink. Every article is fact-checked by our team of editors to ensure accuracy. Outside experts are also consulted to help deliver factual, up-to-date information.

Our mission is to both inform and entertain our readers, telling them everything they want to know (and more) about food. We strive to always provide a well-rounded reading experience, bringing both the biggest food news of the day and a break from the news. Additional information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Creshonda A. Smith

This Is The Reason Your Dishwasher Is Causing Cloudy Glass

Most people enjoy using their dishwashers to save time and effort. That said, there are some who don't know how to use their appliance the right way.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Give Cheez-Its A Massive Flavor Upgrade With This Powdered Addition

You might not think that original Cheez-Its can be improved upon, but this ingredient takes the classic snack to a whole new level. Just try it for yourself.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Dish Too Spicy? Adding This Seasoning Saves Your Taste Buds From Torment

Spice isn't for everyone. If you need to mellow out the flavor of your dish, try using this seasoning, which you might already have in your spice cabinet.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Here's How Much Longer Frozen Proteins Take To Cook In An Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is a miracle worker for many homes and recipes, including when whipping up still-frozen meats. Just make sure frozen meats cook a bit longer.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Why Reheating Leftover Seafood In The Microwave Is A Major No-No

It's tempting to reheat your leftover seafood in the microwave because it's quick and easy, but you'll likely end up regretting it. Here's why.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The Luxurious Final Meal Princess Diana Ate At The Ritz In Paris

Before her untimely death in August 1997, Princess Diana dined at the Ritz Paris, where she ordered a vegetable-forward luxurious, but simple, meal.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Ancient Greek Energy Bars Were Much Different From Today's Versions

You probably think of energy bars as a modern invention, but this yummy Greek snack has been around for thousands of years, and it's simple to make.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The Easiest Way To Save Money At Texas Roadhouse Won't Limit Your Portion Size

Stretch your dining budget and still get the full Texas Roadhouse experience by trying out this simple tip. All you need is a little planning ahead.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The Luxurious Italian Spread Jeff Bezos Served At His Extra Bougie Wedding

Whether or not you paid attention to all the details of the Bezos wedding, the event's menu is one to note; these dishes in particular serve Italian romance.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Think Twice Before Scrubbing That Black 'Rust' Off Your Knives – It's Actually Useful

Even if you've owned countless knives before, nothing prepares you for the black "rust" that develops on some of your knives. But they actually benefit you.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The Iconic Deli Sandwich That Served As John Lennon's Last Meal

According to one book, the final meal of Beatles legend John Lennon was a New York classic served at a once-popular restaurant frequented by celebrities.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
If You're Not Cleaning This Part Of Your Kitchen, You're Putting Your Whole House At Risk

Cleaning your kitchen counters and stovetop is a great idea, but forgetting to scrub this often-overlooked spot could create a potential fire hazard.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The Type Of Lemonade Starbucks Uses To Make Its Tangy Drinks

Starbucks' lemonade-based drinks are tart, refreshing, and consistent, but the secret behind how the brand achieves this is simpler than it might seem.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Why Bulk Buying Everything At Once At Sam's Club Isn't The Best Shopping Method

When done correctly, buying in bulk can save you money. But if you don't go about it the right way, you can end up wasting money and food.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Easily Fire Up The Grill With A Genius Egg Carton Hack

Don't reach for the bottle of lighter fluid the next time you need to fire up your charcoal grill. Try this simple egg carton hack instead.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Why Starbucks Grilled Cheese Is So Good (And How To Replicate It At Home)

Starbucks is mainly known for its coffee, but this grilled cheese on sourdough is a standout on the menu thanks to its crispy, gooey texture.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The Classic Seafood Seasoning That Takes Chicken-Fried Steak To The Next Level

Taking your chicken-fried steak to the next level requires the addition of just one special ingredient, borrowed from your favorite seafood recipes.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
If Your Steak Turns Out Like This At A Restaurant, You're Welcome To Send It Right Back

Sending food back always feels rude, no matter how kindly you ask the server. But do not fret a bit when your steak is prepared incorrectly.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Why Pre-Baking The Crust Keeps Ruining Your Homemade Pizza

Homemade pizza is one of the only ways to try exciting new ingredient combinations, but pre-baking your crust could ruin everything before you can dig in.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Why You Shouldn't Even Bother Making Steak Tartare At Home

Steak tartare is a delightful and luxurious dish to have at a nice restaurant, but making it at home comes with certain risk factors that aren't worth it.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
How To Properly Use The Boost Function On Your Induction Stove

Induction cooktops are very efficient, but only if you know how to use them properly. The boost function, in particular, is great for cutting down cooking time.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
How Much A Chick-Fil-A Franchisee Can Make In A Year

If you've considered owning a quick-service restaurant, such as Chick-fil-A, it's important to account for how much money you can take home as a franchisee.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
How Long It Takes For Your Charcoal Grill To Heat Up

Cooking on a charcoal grill should never be rushed. It takes time for the coals to get hot enough for perfect grilling; use the spare time to prep.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The 3-Ingredient No-Bake Dessert Dip That Tastes Just Like Cake Batter

If you've ever licked the spoon or whisk after whipping up a dessert, you can imagine just how good this three-ingredient no-bake dessert dip is. Make some.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
The Texas High School That Boasts A Literal Food Court For Students

They say everything's bigger in Texas, and in this Texas High School, that applies to the honest to god food court that replaced the cafeteria.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Combine Pasta Salad With This Iconic American Sandwich For The Perfect Summer Appetizer

Everyone loves a good pasta salad, and we know how to make one with the addition of this popular sandwich. Here's what you should be including in your dish.
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More
Why The Pork In Chinese Fried Rice Is Red

Chinese pork fried rice features those succulent pieces of pork colored a bright, cheery red. Where does that red hue on the pork come from?
By Creshonda A. Smith Read More

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