What Pat Allen has cooking in her kitchen

This Cape Girardeau restaurateur was recently recognized for her volunteerism with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri

Pat Allen has always liked to cook and experiment with new recipes. She parlayed this interest into family dinners, a catering business and, finally, a restaurant. Today, Pat and her husband James are known for dishing up tasty gourmet meals at Celebrations Restaurant in Cape Girardeau -- and for mentoring young people interested in culinary arts.

"I love the accomplishments and creativity you see with cooking. I think the introduction of the Food Network has enabled more people to realize the importance of fresh products and trying good food," she says. Allen most enjoys cooking Cajun and Creole -- a love that comes from the good times and food experiences she and James have had in New Orleans.

In 2010, Pat and James received the 2010 Promise Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri. "We believe Big Brothers Big Sisters is a worthwhile organization. Mentoring is something we have always felt very strongly about. We have mentored employees in our previous careers and our current profession. Some of my most satisfying moments are when former employees call or come by and we see what they have accomplished in their adult lives," she says.

FIND PAT'S RECIPE FOR CHICKEN,ANDOUILLE AND HAM JAMBALAYA IN THE AUGUST 2010 ISSUE OF FLOURISH MAGAZINE.