Martha Lou Gadsden (March 20, 1930 – April 1, 2021) was an American chef and restaurateur known for her soul food restaurant Martha Lou's Kitchen in Charleston, South Carolina.
Early life
Gadsden was born in Charleston to Joseph and Lillie Mae Simmons. When she was five years old, her father died. Her mother sent Martha Lou and her two siblings to live with their grandparents in Manning, South Carolina, while she remained in Charleston to work. Martha Lou was introduced to cooking by her grandmother.
Career
Gadsden opened Martha Lou's Kitchen in 1983. The restaurant operated until September 1, 2020.