About us

Sundays at Lula's house were something special. The smell of food hit you before you even made it to the porch, and once you were inside, you were family, no matter who you were. She'd laugh, she'd fuss, she'd tell stories, and sometimes she'd give you that look that let you know she meant business. Family was expected, food was guaranteed, and laughter was a must. But the truth is, it didn't matter if it was Sunday or Tuesday, if you walked into Lula's house, you were going to eat. She wouldn't have it any other way.

And most of what Lula cooked, she grew or raised herself. Her garden wasn't just a patch of land, it was a way of life. Rows of collards, beans, and tomatoes stretched out in the sun, while the smell of fresh herbs lingered in the air. Her children and grandchildren spent many days right there beside her, pulling weeds, picking vegetables, or hauling baskets full of whatever was in season.

But it wasn't just the garden. Lula made sure everyone knew how to live off the land. One day you might be cleaning fish caught from a nearby pond, the next day feeding pigs or skinning down wild squirrels that didn't want to be caught. And if you were brave enough, you might even find yourself cleaning chitterlings because in Lula's house, nothing went to waste, and everything had a purpose.

Those lessons weren't just about food. They were about hard work, self-resilience, and appreciating what the land could give you when you respected it. For Lula, it was second nature. For her children and grandchildren, it was an education one they might not have loved in the moment, but one they look back on now with gratitude and pride.

That was Lula; steady, loving, and always ready with a plate of food and a heart full of soul and care.

From that love and tradition came her daughter..

Meet Kathy Bennett

Kathy Bennett, the daughter of Lula Mae, was blessed with what the family likes to call the food hands. Just like her mama, Kathy has that special touch where anything she puts in a pot or pan comes out tasting like home. They say traditions can be passed down, and Kathy is living proof of that. Her love for cooking and her love for family walk hand in hand, just like they did with Lula.

It's nothing for Kathy to prepare a full-course meal for her family on Sundays, holidays, or even just a random weekday when she feels like bringing everybody together. What used to be done at Grandma Lula's house has carried right on through Kathy, making sure that spirit of gathering, eating, and laughing under one roof never fades away.

Now, Kathy may not grow her own vegetables or raise her own meat like her mama did, but she sure puts in the work. If you don't see her in the kitchen, you'll probably catch her pushing a cart up and down the grocery store aisles, stocking up for the next feast she's planning. Cooking is her way of showing love, and nobody leaves her house hungry; just like Lula.

And just like her mama, Kathy knows how to balance it all. She works hard, but her heart is always with her children, her nieces and nephews, and anyone who needs a little bit of her time or a plate from her table. In Kathy, Lula's legacy is alive and well—proving that the love of family and food really does pass from one generation to the next The legacy continues..

Meet Jimmy Taylor

Now that we've met Gee's mother, Kathy, and understand the incredible life and legacy of Lula Mae, it's time to shine a light on the other side of the story of Gee's Father, Jimmy Taylor.

Jimmy has spent most of his days sharing stories, giving history lessons, and enjoying his favorite music. He's the kind of man whose presence is felt even before he speaks; his laughter, his rhythm, and his knowledge fill a room in a way that makes you stop and listen.

Back in the early '90s, when this very space was known as OJ's, Jimmy was in his element as the DJ. He spent countless hours spinnin records, curating playlists, and setting the vibe for everyone who came through. Music wasn't just a pastime for Jimmy, it was a way to connect with people, to teach, and to keep memories alive. He could go from telling a story about the neighborhood in the '70s to playing the perfect throwback track that had everyone dancing and singing along.

Jimmy's legacy isn't just about music, though. It's about history, mentorship, and being a living bridge between generations. He's the one who reminds the family of where they came from, the lessons learned, and the importance of passing down knowledge, values, and stories just like Lula passed down her cooking, Kathy carried on the family kitchen, and Gee continues the tradition today.

Meet The Owner

Gee Grooms is Kathy and Jimmy's daughter and also Lula's granddaughter. Gee may not spend long hours at the stove, and she doesn't necessarily have the food hands gift but she has found her own place in the family kitchen. She is the face behind the fryer, and her fried chicken pot pies, and fish fry have become legendary in their own right. Even though she doesn't grow her own garden or raise livestock, Gee carries the memories of helping in her Nanny's garden, feeding the pigs, and learning the value of hard work firsthand. She has embraced the best parts of both her grandmother and mother's traditions, keeping family gatherings alive, making sure no one leaves her table hungry, and celebrating the joy and togetherness that food brings.

Through Lula, through Kathy, and now through Gee, the family's legacy of love, food, and dedication has been passed down and nurtured. The kitchens, gardens, and frying stations may look different now, but the heart behind it all remains unchanged. It is a legacy of family, laughter, hard work, and the simple, powerful magic of a meal shared with those you love.

Welcome to Lula Mae's