About me

Chef Donna M. Allen’s love for cooking began at age seven, inspired by generations of talented family cooks. With roots in both restaurant ownership and catering, food has always been a way of life in her family.

Her professional journey began in 2007 while serving at Abundant Life Christian Center in Antioch, TN, where catering a pastor’s luncheon launched her career. Soon after, she became the church’s culinary ministry leader and private chef to Apostle Mike Whitsey.

Chef Donna went on to establish her own luxury catering business, expanding from Tennessee to Missouri and Georgia. A product  of Le’Cole Culinaire in St. Louis, she refined her craft and became known for her high-end events and gourmet creations.

Her career highlights include catering for the Church of God in Christ Holy Convocation, serving at The Majestic Hotel in St. Louis, and holding an exclusive catering agreement with Krispy Crunchy Chicken.

An innovative entrepreneur, Chef Donna created several successful brands, including Heaven in a Jar™, Best Berries™, The Yummy Beverage Company™, The Yummy Gumbo Company™, and Seasoned with Love™ gourmet seasonings. She is also preparing to open her soul food restaurant, The Gumbo House™, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Grounded in faith and fueled by passion, Chef Donna continues to serve others with excellence, creativity, and love—one soulful, from-scratch meal at a time.