Cynthia's Gumbo Express Inc. was founded in September 2013 by Cynthia Boyd-Yette and Terry Yette, following their retirement from a combined 66 years of service with the Postal Service. Cynthia, deeply inspired by the food and culture of Louisiana. She discovered a gumbo recipe, while attending culinary school over 30 years ago. Over time, she perfected it, turning it into a cherished family tradition and the foundation of their business.

The journey began by testing Cynthia's gumbo with co-workers and later selling it at the Homewood and Evergreen Park Farmers Markets. Encouraged by the enthusiastic response, we invested in a step van and transformed it into a mobile food truck. This allowed us to bring our gumbo across Chicagoland, from the West Side to the North Side and South Suburbs, sharing our love for authentic gumbo with the community.

With the support of a Chicago Recovery Plan grant, we’re thrilled to announce the opening of our first brick-and-mortar location at 9943 S. Halsted on the South Side of Chicago. This new chapter will allow us to expand our menu, hire employees, and continue our mission of bringing authentic gumbo to everyone.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see where we’ll pop up next or join us at our new location as we keep sharing the heart and soul of Louisiana cuisine.