Throughout February, the United States celebrates Black History Month to honor the hardships, history and achievements of Black Americans. Black history lives not only through people but also through food.
In the heart of Monroe, the smell of soul food fills the air at 7129 Desiard St. Spicy chicken and sausage gumbo, smothered turkey necks, savory dressings and sweet yams are just a few of the treats that await inside ofGigi’s Kountry Kitchen. The restaurant, owned by Keith McFarland, represents more than a local soul food spot. It is an example of black history, success and a standing memorial to a mother’s love.
“Gigi was my mom and she passed away in 2014. I named it after her because that is what my nieces and nephews called her,” McFarland said. “A lot of the food we serve at the restaurant is from Gigi.”
At the age of 17, McFarland moved from Winnsboro to Monroe, Louisiana. He enrolled at the University of Louisiana Monroe and initially pursued general studies before switching to nursing.
Though McFarland did not leave ULM with a degree, he learned something even greater. He discovered that his passion lies in cooking. During Black History Month, we often reflect on the past. But when you walk into Gigi’s Kountry Kitchen, McFarland said that they experience a living culture shaped by that history.
“Black history is about the culture, it is us, we are black history, we are the culture,” McFarland said. “To any young Black person who is trying to be anything, just be yourself and never let anyone or anything put you back or in a place you do not want to be.”
McFarland honors his late mother by using his cooking to serve his local community. During the severe winter storm the week of Jan. 24, he opened his restaurant as a second home for those seeking shelter from the freezing temperatures.
“I had people stay in my restaurant during the ice storm,” McFarland said. “I had about 27 people who lost their power. They stayed the night and I cooked food for them.”
He continues his service in the community, by making sure no food goes to waste. He gives leftover meals to people in need. Every plate that leaves Gigi’s Kountry Kitchen stands as a “thank you” to the woman who started it all. As Monroe continues to grow, the restaurant stands as a reminder that honoring our ancestors means sharing what they taught us with the world.
