When we were spending time with family in East Texas last week, we ate a place that my sister suggested. We had a busy morning of talking and the men had been out golfing in Longview. We knew they were sure to be hungry. And we were sure that we weren’t going to cook lunch! Who wants to turn on the oven in this heat? Not these sassy sisters!
Divine Catering has been turning out some serious soul food since 2009. The restaurant is located in a small building near the LeTourneau University campus. It is very much a family affair. The Hawkins, which consist of numerous aunts, cousins and their grandmother can be found in the kitchen and waiting tables. It was obvious how much the customers love the food and the family that cooks it. We kept observing people letting the staff know the exact day they would be back and leaving with lots of hugs, handshakes and leftovers after they paid their check.
When I think about it, that sounds a lot like my house when I was growing up, well except for the paying of the check part! One big, happy family!
We couldn’t wait to try the food after seeing so much love going around the room.
;
Our entire table ordered off the regular specials of the day. Everyone ordered something a little different. We tried smothered pork chops, chicken and dumplings, chicken fried steak, fried catfish and even chicken spaghetti. The vegetables vary from day to day according to what may be in season. The green beans and turnip greens were stand outs but they were all very good. The food is made entirely from scratch, even the tarter sauce according to one of the cousins!
;
Our only regret about our entire meal is that we split dessert. Why in the world did we settle for so little cake for so many people? Imagine the cake that everyone wants to eat at the church potluck. Their butter cream cake is even better than that one! It’s so moist and creamy that it’s almost sinful! I am getting my own piece the next time.
The portions are so large that we all had leftovers to take home with us. We warmed them up the same night. We just couldn’t wait.
My sister Janie first tried their food at a local jazz festival. They had catered a VIP event that she attended along with her husband Mark. They loved the food so much that they went back the next day.
After tasting it for myself, I totally understand! It is heavenly.
So if you find yourself traveling around East Texas and need to feed the family, stop on by Divine Catering.
Not only will the Hawkins family make some amazing food for you to eat, they will also do their best to feed your soul.
Stay Sassy Y’all.
A perfect description for a wonderful lunch with our family and our new friends.
I look forward to seeing yall the next time tall are in town!!! As the owner it brings me great joy to see customers from around the state rave about the food I simply grew up eating!!!
Thanks,
KEVIN HAWKINS
P.s
I’ve already started talking to the
health department about a food park.
Be looking for a phone call when ball
Starts to bounce…
We can’t wait to come back. You and your family do an awesome job! It would be so great for Longview to have a food truck park. I know it would be a HUGE success and your restaurant would be a great anchor to get it started! Build and they will come! It would be my pleasure to help you and your family in any way I can. Heck, my family is so big, just sending them to the food truck would keep you busy!