Hello, my name is Thomas Hunter, and I'm proud to share with you the rich culinary heritage of my family through my cookbook, "73 Years of Family Favorite Southern Recipes."

Born and raised in Jenkinsburg, GA, a small town just 46 miles south of Atlanta, I developed a deep appreciation for Southern cuisine from a young age. Although my career initially took me around the world as a Marine, it was my upbringing in a family of cooks that instilled in me a passion for the art of cooking.

My late parents, Thomas and Doris Hunter, laid the foundation for our family's culinary legacy when they opened Hunter's Soul Food Cafe in Jackson, GA, back in 1976. Today, one of my twin sisters Mary Hunter-Williams and her husband Vincent carry on the tradition as proud owners of Hunter's Café.

While my twin sisters Martha and Mary found their calling in the kitchen early on, my own journey with cooking didn't truly begin until later in life. I discovered my niche in baking, finding joy and fulfillment in creating delectable treats for family and friends.

With the guidance of the divine and a desire to preserve and share our cherished family recipes, I embarked on the creation of "73 Years of Family Favorite Southern Recipes." This cookbook is not just a collection of recipes but a journey through time, paying homage to our ancestors and the evolving tastes of modern Southern cuisine.

Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, I hope these recipes bring you as much joy and comfort as they have brought to my family for generations. And if you ever find yourself in Jackson, GA, be sure to stop by Hunter's Café and tell them I sent you.