In a city known for its rich history and cultural diversity, one soul food diner is quietly making a big impact. I’ve Got the Recipe, owned by Sheila Dennis, has become a cherished spot for locals.
With recipes passed down through generations and a menu that unites people, this restaurant is more than a place to eat — it’s a celebration of heritage and community spirit.
For Dennis, one dish in particular holds a special place in her heart — her mother’s cornbread dressing. “People love the cornbread dressing, and that’s what I like the most,” she said.
This beloved dish, which she often serves with baked chicken or turkey wings, captures the essence of comfort and tradition that defines I’ve Got the Recipe.
Dennis’ journey into the restaurant industry is deeply rooted in her childhood memories of cooking with her grandmother and preparing meals for her church. “It was something I always did,” she recalls.
This lifelong passion for cooking inspired her to open her own business, offering a menu filled with soul food delights that resonate with both her family’s traditions and her community’s tastes.
The name I’ve Got the Recipe carries special significance. Dennis’ daughter named the restaurant as a way to honor her family’s rich culinary heritage. With recipes passed down from her mother and grandmother, Dennis’ restaurant, including its own name, is a testament to the legacy of love and cooking that defines her family.
One of the most remarkable aspects of I’ve Got the Recipe is its ability to bring people together. Dennis proudly notes that her food appeals to a wide range of customers, going beyond culture and race. “We have different people coming in, and they love the food,” she said.
In a time when division seems all too common, Dennis’ restaurant stands as a hopeful reminder that there is unity found through food and recipes.
Dennis’ commitment to her community goes beyond her restaurant’s doors.
“We advertise for other businesses,” she explains, pointing to a table filled with business cards and promotional materials.
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring young restaurateurs, Dennis’ message is clear and encouraging: “Follow your dreams. If it’s something you want to do, go for it.”
Her words serve as a powerful reminder that passion can lead to remarkable achievements.
I’ve Got the Recipe is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is located at 621 Bossier St., Natchitoches, La 71457. For those looking for a taste of soul food that brings people together and tells a story, this diner is a must-visit.
And don’t forget to stop by and say hello to Sheila Dennis, who embodies the heart and soul of this Natchitoches culinary treasure.
