If you’ve ever wondered where to find the best brunch spot, a cozy corner for date night, or the hidden gem that locals keep to themselves, Kelly and Akeem Brown are your go-to guides. Proudly serving as an active duty, faith-filled Air Force family here in Surprise, the Browns have turned their love of food and community into a flavorful journey they’re eager to share. With big hearts and even bigger appetites, they’re shining a light on the restaurants and small businesses that make Arizona such a special place to call home.
“Food has always been our love language. We believe a great meal can bring people together and create lasting memories,” Kelly says with a smile.
What began as casual date nights and family dinners soon grew into something bigger. Friends and neighbors started asking for their recommendations, and before long Kelly and Akeem realized they had an opportunity to give back to the community they love. That’s when they launched Beyond Surprise: AZ Eats & Adventures with The Browns, a growing hub where locals can find honest reviews, restaurant spotlights, and insider tips for dining out across Arizona.
“Everyone is welcome at our table,” Akeem explains. “We want this to be a place where people share ideas, connect, and celebrate the incredible food culture here.”
While food is at the heart of their platform, the Browns see Beyond Surprise AZ as much more than a review page. It’s a way to connect neighbors, support small businesses, and encourage families to try something new. Whether it’s a locally owned taquería tucked away in a strip mall, a trendy fine dining spot perfect for celebrations, or the food truck you might have driven by a dozen times, Kelly and Akeem are passionate about giving these places the recognition they deserve.
“Arizona’s food scene is so diverse. From small-town treasures to urban hot spots, every restaurant has a story worth telling,” Kelly notes.
The best part of Eats & Adventures with The Browns is that it’s not just about Kelly and Akeem; it’s about everyone. Their Facebook group, Beyond Surprise: AZ Eats & Adventures with The Browns, invites locals to swap recommendations, share photos of their favorite dishes, and cheer on family-owned businesses. From date night ideas to ladies’ brunch recommendations, family dinner picks, or large group celebrations, the Browns provide inspiration for every occasion, while encouraging community voices to join in the fun.
The Browns also see their work as an extension of their Air Force values: service, connection, and community. “We love people,” Akeem says simply. “This is our way of serving the community we call home.”
With so many new restaurants opening and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, Kelly and Akeem are just getting started. Their goal is to create a lasting resource for locals while highlighting the passion and creativity of Arizona’s restaurant owners. So the next time you’re wondering where to grab dinner, look no further than Beyond Surprise: AZ Eats & Adventures with The Browns. Pull up a chair, join the conversation, and discover the best our community has to offer, one meal at a time. And don’t forget to follow along with their journey on social media using the hashtag #BrownsEatAZ.