06/06/2026
Founder Evolution - Meet the Owner
Queens of Nigerian Cuisines was born from both love and loss.
On February 14, 2021, I started cooking from my mother's kitchen in Jackson, Mississippi, just one month after losing my eldest brother to COVID-19 on January 14, 2021. In the midst of grief, cooking became my way of honoring his memory and staying connected to my family, my culture, and my purpose.
As the daughter of Nigerian parents, I was raised surrounded by the rich flavors, traditions, and hospitality of Nigerian culture. My mother taught me how to prepare authentic Nigerian dishes with care, patience, and love. What began as a personal act of remembrance soon grew into something much greater—a calling to share the comfort and joy of Nigerian cuisine with others.
My journey has also been shaped by my own battle with triple-negative breast cancer. In July 2018, I was diagnosed and faced one of the most difficult seasons of my life. I endured six surgeries and eight rounds of chemotherapy. During treatment, especially on days when nausea made eating difficult, my mother's homemade Nigerian okra soup and egusi soup with spinach became a source of nourishment, comfort, and strength. Those meals helped sustain me physically and emotionally, and they inspired the heart of Queens of Nigerian Cuisines: healing through food.
There were times when I stepped away from the business, uncertain of what the future would hold. But the support and encouragement from my community kept bringing me back. In the beginning, I catered events and delivered meals from my car, determined to share the food I loved. Through faith, perseverance, and the loyalty of my customers, I eventually secured a pick-up window location and continued to grow.
Today, Queens of Nigerian Cuisines is more than a food business. It is a celebration of Nigerian culture, resilience, family, and faith. Every meal we prepare carries a story of love, healing, and hope. It is my honor to share these traditions with families throughout Jackson and beyond.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for allowing us to bring a taste of home, comfort, and culture to your table.
With gratitude,
Antonia Erhabor
Founder, Queens of Nigerian Cuisines