Rich, Bold Flavors to Your Table
At The Southern Eatery, we specialize in authentic Southern Creole cuisine, crafted with passion and tradition. Whether you're looking for an intimate private dinner experience or a full buffet-style spread for your next event, we bring mouthwatering dishes infused with deep, soulful flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.
From seafood-loaded mac and cheese and fried cabbage to Pasta Ya Ya, Steak Diane, and tender, slow-cooked smothered meats—every dish is made with love and packed with flavor. With hearty mains and savory sides, we’ll bring comfort and soul to your table. Let us take care of the cooking while you relax and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience.
Our Services
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Enjoy a personalized culinary experience with Chef Justin in the comfort and privacy of your chosen location. From beautifully crafted dishes to elegant tablescapes and optional wine or spirit pairings, every detail is tailored to create a memorable, chef-curated dining experience just for you and your guests.
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Host your next event with our private catering service, featuring a buffet-style experience for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. With customizable menu options to suit any crowd, we deliver flavorful, Southern-inspired meals perfect for gatherings of any size.
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Elevate your next meeting or event with our corporate catering services, offering a buffet-style experience for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Menus are fully customizable with attention to dietary restrictions and preferences, ensuring every guest is well taken care of and well fed.
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Our family and personal meal prep service brings chef-crafted meals to your table—tailored to fit your lifestyle. Whether you need quick, go-to dinners for busy nights or nutritious meals to support your fitness goals, we’ve got you covered. We specialize in keto, paleo, whole food plant-based, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-conscious options, all designed to make eating well easy, delicious, and stress-free.
Who We Are
Chef Justin Smalley, Executive Chef and founder of The Southern Eatery, was born and raised in the heart of Louisiana—where food is more than just a meal; it’s a way of life. With deep roots in Southern Creole and homestyle cooking, Chef Justin brings the heart and soul of Louisiana to every table he serves.
With over 15 years of experience as a private chef, 8 years as an executive corporate chef, and 8 years leading high-volume catering operations, Chef Justin has mastered the art of creating unforgettable meals for any occasion—from intimate dinners to large-scale events. His passion, precision, and creativity shine through in every dish, blending traditional Southern comfort with bold, elevated flavors.
At The Southern Eatery, we believe food is a powerful connector. It brings people together, creates lasting memories, and turns any gathering into something special. Whether crafting a multi-course plated dinner or a lively buffet, Chef Justin and his team are committed to delivering not just exceptional food, but genuine Southern hospitality.
Let us share our flavors, our traditions, and our love of food with you—because the best moments in life are made around the table.
Let’s work together.
Have questions? We're here to help! Please complete the contact form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We can’t wait to bring bold flavors and Southern charm to your table soon!