Our Story

In 1986, Charles Myers established and opened the Gumbo  Pot located inside The Original Farmers Market. I was hired by Mr. Myers in 1994 as a delivery driver. During that first year, I stopped delivering food to be a cashier, then a server.  Later I was promoted to assistant cook; and the following year, I accepted the position as Head Chef of the Gumbo Pot. Over the next 3 years, I became Assistant Manager and then graciously accepted the role and responsibly as General Manager in 1998.  

In 2005, Charles Myers gave me the opportunity to purchase The Gumbo Pot and in June of that year, I became the proud business owner of this establishment. Throughout the years The Gumbo Pot has become a family-run business with the hard work and dedication from myself and my children. The Gumbo Pot has been featured in both television interviews and food magazines. From time to time, we have even had the pleasure to serve celebrities who were incognito. 

When the Covid pandemic hit, so many, businesses and food establishments were lost. I wasn’t sure the Gumbo Pot would survive, but with perseverance, business loans, and prayers, I survived the pandemic. Today, the Gumbo Pot is back on solid ground and continues to serve dedicated patrons as well as new customers to the establishment. 

— Clinton Thompson, Owner