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Melanie Alston

Martha Lou’s KitchenNorth Charleston, SC
years of participation 2016, 2019, 2021, 2026
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About Me

Melanie Alston owner and Chef of Martha Lou’s Kitchen is the second eldest granddaughter of the late Mrs. Martha G. Gadsden, better known as Martha Lou. Born and raised in Charleston, SC at an early age (childhood) she recalls Martha Lou teaching her how to prepare some of Charleston’s best soul food dishes. Under her grandmother’s stern and watchful eyes, she learned techniques and skills that impacted the taste, texture and overall quality of her entrees. Dishes like red rice, collard greens, lima beans, cornbread, mac-n-cheese, chiliterlings, seafood salad and fish & grits. Oh, and let’s not forget Martha Lou’s Kitchen is recognized worldwide for its delicious fried chicken. Following in her grandmother’s footsteps. Melanie obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from ECPI University. She owned, operated, and managed Martha Lou’s Kitchen # 2, Love & Happiness restaurant in North Charleston, SC. Presently, she still caters events and enjoys cooking for her closest friends and family members.

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