Skip to main content

Neguess Creole Restaurant & Catering | Our Story

Our Journey Through Haitian Tradition And Everyday Cooking

It all began in 1988 when Chef Marie immigrated to New Jersey from the beautiful Caribbean island of Haiti. As a recent culinary school graduate in Port Au Prince, Marie was excited to embark on a new adventure in the United States. Upon arriving to Orange NJ, Marie immediately saw an opportunity to serve her community. The neighborhood had a growing Caribbean immigrant population but limited access to cuisine that was truly from home. Neguess Creole was first born out of a small kitchen in her home on N Day St. While Marie cooked delicious meals, her home would flood with Haitian neighbors, professionals and friends eager for a traditional cooked meal. Customers soon became close friends and long time visitors as they remained loyal to the food and the taste of Haiti. After 7 years, Neguess Creole's kitchen closed down as the family relocated to a nearby town. While the kitchen was temporarily out of service, the vision never perished. In 2020, Chef Marie found a restaurant space to revive her dream. Alongside her daughter with a business degree, Jessica, the pair ventured forward into bringing Neguess Creole kitchen to life as Neguess Creole Restaurant. The restaurant now serves the local community in Vauxhall NJ with fresh, all natural and carefully prepared traditional Haitian cuisine. The restaurant also provides catering services for all size events. Not only does the restaurant serve incredible food, but it prides itself in spreading the joy of Haitian cuisine through its food product, Neguess Creole Haitian Epis and Pikliz. These packaged spices contain all natural ingredients and one spoonful is enough to season your favorite meats, seafood, rice and vegetables. Lastly, the establishment prides itself in giving back to the community through philanthropy. Neguess Creole supports education through providing scholarships to students in underserved communities and schools in Haiti.
From Haiti to New Jersey

From Haiti to New Jersey

Chef Marie’s journey began in 1988 when she moved from Haiti to New Jersey with a passion for cooking and a dream of sharing authentic Haitian flavors. Seeing a growing Caribbean community with limited access to traditional cuisine, she began creating meals that brought comfort, culture, and a true taste of home.
A Dream Reignited

A Dream Reignited

What started in a small kitchen on N Day Street quickly became a gathering place where neighbors and friends connected over great food. Though the family relocated and the kitchen closed for a period, the vision never faded. In 2020, Chef Marie and her daughter Jessica revived that dream by opening Neguess Creole Restaurant and bringing their family story back to life.
More Than a Restaurant

More Than a Restaurant

Neguess Creole is more than a place to enjoy delicious Haitian cuisine — it is built on family values and community impact. From signature Haitian Epis and Pikliz products to supporting education through scholarships in Haiti, the mission is to share culture, create meaningful connections, and give back through every opportunity.
Built With Community In Mind

Built With Community In Mind

From the start, we wanted to create a space where people feel comfortable gathering over good food. As a Black-owned and women-owned business, we take pride in serving our community with care and respect. Our restaurant is designed to feel welcoming to everyone, offering a place where guests can relax, share meals, and enjoy a dependable dining experience together.