The Story Behind the Soul
Cooking with love, legacy, and bold Southern flavor—meet the heart of Lucille’s Catering.
Chef Mertis
I’m Chef Mertis, founder and Executive Chef of Lucille’s Catering. For nearly 12 years, I’ve brought soulful, made-from-scratch dishes to Austin and surrounding areas—from intimate dinners to full-scale weddings and corporate galas.
Born and raised in the South, my earliest memories are in the kitchen—watching, helping, and tasting. My food is rooted in tradition and elevated with technique, creativity, and care.
At Lucille’s, we don’t just serve meals—we create moments. My motto is simple: “Cooking with love isn’t just a mindset. It’s our mission.”
I’m proud to lead one of Austin’s premier Black woman-owned catering companies, known for exceptional service, unforgettable flavors, and heart in every bite.
Inspired by Lucille. Built for Community.
Lucille’s Catering was born from a legacy of love, resilience, and recipes passed down through four generations of remarkable women. My mother, Mildred—who taught me how to cut up a chicken and named me after two of the most amazing women—was the first to put a knife in my hand and love in my food. Her mother, Mertis, and her grandmother, Lucille, carried the soul of our family through their cooking. Their strength, creativity, and kitchen wisdom shaped not only the way I cook, but the heart I bring to every dish. This is more than a business—it’s my inheritance.
Whether it’s a wedding reception, office luncheon, or community event, we show up with the same energy: soul, service, and Southern hospitality.
We believe food should make you feel something. That’s why our menus reflect the heart of our culture, the rhythm of the South, and the joy of bringing people together.
What We Value
❤️ Love
Every recipe begins with it.
□️ Tradition
We honor our roots with authentic Southern flavors.
✨ Excellence
From plating to professionalism, we strive for the best.
□ Community
We serve with purpose and pride.
Where We Serve (and Sizzle)
Proudly catering events in Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Cedar Park, and across Central Texas.
- • Lucille’s Catering started with one peach cobbler recipe—and a prayer.
- • Chef Mertis "put her foot in dem greens".
- • We’ve catered for city officials, tech firms, and backyard weddings.
- • Yes, we make "finger licking" sauces.
- • Our staff sings and dances (every change they get) to Motown while prepping and cooking.
