The History of Ella Jean's Café
Who We Are
Diane Stewart
Founder & Owner
Ms. Diane was raised in Hickman County, Tennessee. From a young age, she spent lots of time participating in her local 4H, learning how to make biscuits and other homemade treats. As she grew, her cooking repertoire expanded to include cakes, cobblers, hickory-smoked ribs, greens, and more.
Much like her ancestors, Ms. Diane loves using food to pull people together. She loves to be in the kitchen and listen to the communion of loved ones.​ Most important, she is passionate about preparing a homecooked meal for those who may not have access to one. Cooking and gathering people around food is in her DNA.
Who is Ella Jean?
We get that question quite often. She is your family matriarch, granny, auntie, second cousin, or mother-in-law. Her most beloved characteristic is her knack for cooking and hosting memorable family dinners. She prides herself in delicious comfort food, a welcoming home and a loving spirit, that keeps you coming back for more.
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Owners, Brian and Diane, imagined a café where the spirit of a family home could be felt. Reflecting on their experiences, the restaurant was named by combining the names of their mothers.​
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Ms. Ella, Brian's mom, is now deceseased. Ms. Jean, Diane's mom, still loves helping in the kitchen when she can.​
Who is Ella Jean?
We get that question quite often. She is your family matriarch, granny, auntie, second cousin, or mother-in-law. Her most beloved characteristic is her knack for cooking and hosting memorable family dinners. She prides herself in delicious comfort food, a welcoming home and a loving spirit, that keeps you coming back for more.
​
Owners, Brian and Diane, imagined a café where the spirit of a family home could be felt. Reflecting on their experiences, the restaurant was named by combining the names of their mothers.​
​
Ms. Ella, Brian's mom, is now deceseased. Ms. Jean, Diane's mom, still loves helping in the kitchen when she can.​
The Early Days
In the very early days of Ella Jean's Café, we opened six days a week. Back then, a meat & two cost $6.00, the Friday Fish Special was $4.99, and the rolls were always hot!
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Ella Jean's Café, affecionately known as "EJ's", served many homecooked meals to the North Nashville community, including social clubs, church groups, and families. No one was a stranger! The atmosphere, the food, and the smiling faces truly evoked a taste of home.
From Ella Jean's Café To Hosting, Baking and more...
When Ella Jean's Café closed its doors in 2017, Ms. Diane prayed for new opportunities. By following her passion of caring for people, today, she enjoys hosting, providing wholesome meals for senior citizens and baking for friends. Explore this lifestyle blog to gather recipes, tips for hosting and sharing everyday advice.
Peace, love and good food.
- Ms. Diane
