Local
Melly Mell’s family-run soul food business finds a home at Madison market
Carmell Jackson opened Melly Mell’s Soul Food at the Madison Public Market after years of building the business through meal deliveries and catering. She says several generations of her family are helping run it.
Melly Mell’s Soul Food celebrated its grand opening Friday, Oct. 16, at the Madison Public Market, giving Madison business owner Carmell Jackson a long-awaited storefront and a chance to carry on a family dream.
Jackson’s father had hoped to open a barbecue restaurant, but he died before that could happen. Jackson continued the effort by delivering meals around Madison and later taking on catering work. After years of working toward a place at the market, she has opened the restaurant at the North First Street location.
Her family is part of the business, including her daughters, grandchildren and sons. Jackson said having younger relatives involved gives her the possibility of passing the business on.
Melly Mell’s Soul Food is open Wednesday through Sunday.