spirit & soul catering + Community • where food meets storytelling.🍽️
Welcome to the culinary side of Jermaine Abdual’s vision—a place where food becomes a bridge to heritage, creativity, and community. From catering soulful celebrations to reviving the legacy of Chef Rufus Estes through modern dining experiences, our offerings are crafted to feed both body and soul. Explore below to discover how we can serve you.
Soul-Inspired
Cookery & Fare
chi-town bred
Community led
Spirit & Soul Catering + Community is a social enterprise catering company and a community where life is lived around the table. chef Jermaine Abdual reimagines soul food through a contemporary lens, honoring tradition while charting new territory. A self-taught culinary artist, he crafts Southern-inspired cuisine that captures the essence of soul food without relying on conventional techniques—proving that heritage flavors can shine through innovative methods. His cooking marries time-honored recipes with modern sensibilities, bridging past and present. Drawing inspiration from pioneering Black chefs like Rufus Estes, Jermaine creates immersive dining experiences that celebrate both the food and the stories behind it. Through his pop-up series Rufus, intimate private dinners, hands-on cooking classes, programs, and bespoke catering, he's building community one thoughtfully plated dish at a time. His approach demonstrates that soul food isn't just about what's on the plate—it's about gathering, sharing, and keeping cultural traditions alive while helping them evolve.
Spirit & Soul Catering + Community is more than a business—it’s a movement with a vision for community, culture, and connection. jermaine specializes in crafting menus that blend soulful traditions with fresh, modern twists, perfect for small weddings, private events, and intimate celebrations. Rooted in Chicago and inspired by Black heritage cooking, the mission is to bring people together through food, storytelling, and community-focused events.
Offerings:
Customizable menus tailored to your event.
Private chef services for intimate gatherings.
Interactive cooking demonstrations and meal preparation.
Healthier takes on classic soul food, with options for non-fried, non-beef, and non-pork dishes.
we’re evolving! While the catering services are still available, I’m thrilled to introduce Rufus—an exciting new dining experience honoring Black heritage and Chef Rufus Estes. Explore more about the pop-up concept, Rufus! Ready to plan your next event? Contact me today to learn more about services and availability.
Seasonal On-Site Catering, Cooking Demos & Tasting Menus with Chef Jermaine abdual
When the seasons change, so does the menu! During the vibrant spring and summer months, Chef Jermaine brings fresh, seasonal flavors straight to your event with curated on-site catering, interactive cooking demos, and exclusive tasting menus. Whether you're hosting a backyard brunch, a casual cookout, or an elegant garden gathering, we offer delicious, affordable catering options designed to make your event effortless and memorable.
Seasonal Catering Themes & Menus
🌸 Spring Fling Brunch – Starting at $25 per person
Fresh fruit platters, seasonal waffles, grilled chicken, seasonal frittatas, and Chef Jermaine’s signature shrimp & grits. Add a mimosa bar for an extra touch!
🔥 Flattop & Grill Feast – Starting at $30 per person
Sizzling smash burgers, marinated grilled chicken and steak, herb-infused vegetables, and desserts hot off the flattop and grill. Upgrade with seafood specialties for the ultimate feast!
🥗 Light & Fresh Garden Party – Starting at $22 per person
Seasonal salads, herb-roasted chicken, citrus-glazed salmon, quinoa-stuffed bell peppers, and refreshing fruit-infused beverages. Perfect for showers, brunches, and daytime gatherings!
🎉 Taco & Tequila Nights – Starting at $28 per person
A southern-inspired taco bar with marinated meats, fresh toppings, homemade salsas, and his southern fried street corn. Pair with margaritas or lemonade agua frescas for a summer fiesta vibe!
🍳 Live Cooking Demos with Chef Jermaine – Starting at $35 per person
Take your event to the next level with an interactive cooking experience! Chef Jermaine will prepare signature dishes right before your eyes, sharing pro tips, techniques, and culinary secrets along the way. Perfect for team-building events, private parties, and foodie gatherings. Choose from themes like:
Grilling & Searing Masterclass – Master the flattop and grill with techniques for juicy meats, seared seafood, and flavorful veggies.
Brunch Like a Pro – Learn how to make the ultimate brunch spread.
Farm-to-Table Fresh – Cook with seasonal ingredients for a light and flavorful feast.
International Flavors – Dive into cuisines from around the world, one dish at a time.
🍽️ Seasonal Tasting Menus – Starting at $40 per person
Perfect for food lovers who want to explore a curated selection of Chef Jermaine’s best seasonal creations. Each tasting menu includes small-plate versions of signature dishes, allowing guests to sample multiple flavors in one experience. Great for intimate gatherings, private tastings, or corporate events.
Tasting Menu Themes:
Spring Awakening – A fresh mix of vibrant salads, seared seafood, and citrus-infused bites.
Summer Fire – Bold flavors featuring grilled meats, smoky seasonings, and zesty sides.
Chef’s Signature Selection – A surprise tasting of seasonal favorites crafted just for your event.
🍹 Custom Menus & Private Chef Services
Looking for something unique? Chef Jermaine can craft a custom menu tailored to your event’s theme, preferences, and dietary needs. From intimate dinners to large-scale events, we bring the flavor, so you don’t have to lift a finger.
📅 Booking & Availability
Now accepting reservations for Spring & Summer 2025. Limited dates available—secure your spot today!
🔥 Ready to host an unforgettable culinary experience? Contact us now to book your seasonal catering, tasting menu, or cooking demo!