In the heart of Chicago, where the aroma of soul food mingles with the city’s vibrant culture, Bridgette Flagg has carved out a name for herself as a chef, entrepreneur, and community champion. Her restaurants, Soulé Chicago and Soule to Soule, are celebrated for their Creole-infused soul food, a testament to her family’s culinary legacy.
Bridgette Flagg, born and raised in Chicago, grew up surrounded by the rich traditions of Southern cooking. She honed her skills in the kitchens of her grandmother, Bea Tolliver, a head cook for the Chicago Public Schools originally from Mississippi, and her mother.
After their passing, Bridgette kept their memory alive by hosting Sunday dinner gatherings for friends and family. What began as a heartfelt tribute soon turned into a thriving business. She started selling homemade meals—think fried catfish, mac & cheese, and greens—through Instagram, quickly scaling up to 50–60 plates a day. This grassroots success paved the way for the opening of Soulé Chicago on West Chicago Ave in 2017, followed by a second location, Soule to Soule, in North Lawndale.
Among the many who have enjoyed Bridgette’s soulful dishes is rapper Lil Baby, a frequent visitor to Soulé Chicago. While Bridgette and Lil Baby share no personal or familial ties, their connection through her restaurant has made headlines. Adding to this story is Lil Baby’s personal chef, a Chicago native who has been cooking for him for eight years. Recently, she shared an emotional Instagram post thanking the rapper for his loyalty and support:
“Met you almost 8 years ago—you asked me to cook for you on the spot. I really thought you were just playing, but you were dead serious. You gave me a shot without knowing anything about me. We were both just getting started in our careers… and look at God.
There’s not a time you’ve come to Chicago and didn’t support me. With hundreds of amazing restaurants in this city, your loyalty has never changed!
Last night I said, ‘We’ve been doing this for years,’ and you said, ‘We got plenty more to go.’ I love you for that. 
Thank you, @lilbaby for always being a real one. 
”
This story of loyalty and success contrasts sharply with the darker realities of Chicago. The city has been reeling from a wave of violence, including a devastating drive-by shooting outside Artis Lounge in 2025 that claimed four lives and left 14 wounded. According to the Chicago Police Department, the city recorded over 600 homicides in 2024, a grim statistic that highlights its ongoing struggle with gun violence. Amid this volatile backdrop, the restaurant scene—and the community it serves—faces constant challenges.
Yet, in the face of adversity, Bridgette Flagg’s achievements shine as a beacon of hope. Her restaurants not only serve up delicious meals but also foster connections, as seen with patrons like Lil Baby and his chef.
Her journey from Instagram hustle to brick-and-mortar success reflects the resilience of Chicago’s spirit. It’s a reminder that food has the power to unite people, and that loyalty—whether to a chef, a customer, or a community—can thrive even in the toughest times.
