Tasting the Edna Lewis Menu Trail, Part One

Coopers Cookin’ and Catering, located off Byrd Street in the town of Orange, is bringing new life to famed chef Edna Lewis’ Curry Chicken recipe as part of the Edna Lewis menu trail. (Photo Credit: Heather Griffin)

This is the first in a series of columns by Heather Griffin as she reviews featured dishes at each of the stops along the Edna Lewis Menu Trail. Stay tuned for updates throughout the duration of the menu trail program.

Coopers' version of Edna's Chicken Curry makes even cooked carrots taste good.

Coopers Cookin' and Catering was my first stop on the Edna Lewis Menu Trail, and it did not disappoint.

The Chicken Curry burst with warm and vibrant flavors, the spices hitting the back of the tongue. Filled with an assortment of vegetables and chicken simmered in a bright and delicious sauce served over rice, the dish was a delightful pick-me-up in the middle of the day.

Hidden away off Byrd Street, Coopers Cookin' and Catering is a family restaurant in the town of Orange. They specialize in Southern comfort food, which is a perfect match for the "Grande Dame of Southern Cooking," who was known for her love of Southern flavors.

Co-owner Denise Thompson agreed that Lewis’ cuisine fits in naturally with the restaurant’s specialties, adding, “A lot of her recipes are what we grew up on.”

When asked about the experience of being part of the menu trail, Thompson said, “We can’t keep anything [in stock].”

The Edna Lewis-inspired dishes have been selling faster than they can keep up with the demand—something I understand now, because their food is incredibly tasty and keeps customers coming back for more.

They’re hoping the popularity continues as the trail continues through the seasons.

Soon, Coopers will find a new home in a bigger and better location where they can expand and grow their business. They’re currently looking for staff for their new location, so if you need work, Coopers is hiring.

Along with the Chicken Curry, they also serve Lewis’ Quiche Lorraine and her Deep Dish Apple pie with Nutmeg Sauce.

The three recipes served at Coopers can be found in The Edna Lewis Cookbook by Edna Lewis and Evangeline Peterson.

The menu trail will continue through May 2023, so you have plenty of time to try a taste. I'll certainly be going back for more curry and to check out the other dishes.

For more information on the Edna Lewis Menu Trail, including a full list of participating locations, visit www.visitorangevirginia.com/taste/the-edna-lewis-menu-trail. To learn more about Coopers Cookin’ and Catering, visit their Facebook page here.