We had the good fortune of connecting with Janelle Suriel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Janelle, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
For me, starting Marvelous Meals was about much more than food. Growing up in a Dominican family, some of my most treasured memories were created around the table. Food was how we celebrated, comforted one another, and expressed love. My mother played a huge role in shaping who I am, and although she is no longer here, the values she instilled in me live on through everything I do. My brother Engels also had a tremendous impact on my life. After being diagnosed with Stage 4 sarcoma cancer, he faced every challenge with incredible faith and strength. Watching him persevere taught me to trust God and never give up, even during difficult seasons. As a mother of two and a woman of faith, I wanted to build something meaningful, a business centered around love, hospitality, and bringing people together. What began with cooking for family and friends has grown into Marvelous Meals, and I truly believe it is part of the purpose God placed on my heart. For me, Marvelous Meals is more than a business. It is a legacy of love, faith, and honoring the people who helped shape my life.

Decorative table with illuminated letters spelling 'VIVO', fruit arrangements, flowers, and desserts, against a white wall background.

Buffet table with various salads and toppings, person in background, against beige wall.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets Marvelous Meals apart is that we don’t just cook, we create experiences. I believe food should not only taste amazing, but also be beautiful and memorable. Every client completes a questionnaire because I love incorporating their vision, theme, and personality into the overall experience and presentation.What I am most proud of is taking a leap of faith and trusting God completely. After more than 13 years in property management, I felt God leading me to pursue my passion full-time, and it has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Today, I get to do what I love while spending more time with my children, and seeing my 16-year-old son join me at events and take pride in what we’re building together has been incredibly rewarding. As well as my 9 year old asking me to teach him our family recipes so he can take over someday warms my heart! My journey hasn’t been easy. Life has brought challenges and losses that tested my faith, but through it all, God has sustained me. I’ve learned to trust the process, let go, and let God. I believe I have gotten where I am by being genuine, providing exceptional customer service, and doing everything with love and excellence. As Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.”More than anything, I want people to know that Marvelous Meals is built on faith, love, and a desire to bring people together through unforgettable experiences.

Skewers of grilled meat with vegetables including bell peppers and onions on a tray.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Because I’m a chef and a foodie, I would literally create a week-long itinerary and take visitors on a culinary journey through Atlanta. One of the things I love most about this city is the beautiful melting pot that it is. You can experience so many different cultures, flavors, and traditions without ever leaving Atlanta, and as a chef, I absolutely love that.

First Stop , Something Really ATL for Breakfast

T’s Brunch Bar
Bird & Batter

Lunch Around the World
For lunch, I’d take them on a quick trip to the Dominican Republic with Chamoy Restaurant, where they can experience authentic Dominican flavors. Then, I’d head over to ATL Pho for a bowl of authentic Vietnamese pho.

Dinner & Vibes

Fade & Facet for an elevated dining experience, incredible cuisine, and stunning aesthetics.

Pasha, an upscale Mediterranean restaurant with Middle Eastern influences, known for its amazing lamb chops, beautiful atmosphere, and flavorful dishes.

Roc Steady, a Haitian-owned gem with delicious food, great music, and vibrant nightlife.

Food has a way of bringing people together, and Atlanta gives you the opportunity to experience flavors from all over the world without ever leaving the city. That’s one of the things I appreciate most about living here. As a chef, I love creating experiences, and Atlanta makes it easy to celebrate culture one plate at a time.

Table with snacks and drinks covered with a blue cloth, Chase logo visible, in a room with wooden paneling and screens.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I give all glory and honor to God. My faith has been the foundation of my journey, and the Bible has been one of my greatest sources of wisdom, encouragement, and strength. Through every season, both joyful and difficult, God’s Word has reminded me to trust His timing, persevere, and walk in purpose. 🙏🏾 I am forever grateful to my mother and my brother Engels, whose love, faith, and resilience continue to inspire me daily. Their lives taught me the importance of serving others, loving deeply, and never giving up. I would also like to recognize my children, my family, my incredible Marvelous Meals team, and every client who has entrusted us with their special moments. No one succeeds alone, and I am thankful for every person who has encouraged, supported, and believed in me along the way. Lastly, the Bible remains the book that has had the greatest impact on my life.

Instagram: Chefgirljanelle

Facebook: Marvelous Meals

Other: Google Marvelous Meals by Chef girl Janelle

Four small glasses with shrimp and garnishes on a wooden slice, with a blurred background including a framed sign and drinks.

Assorted fruits, pastries, and snacks arranged on a table with a pineapple centerpiece, including sliced oranges, strawberries, and cookies.

Grilled lamb chops with asparagus on a white plate, with a blurred background of a dining setting.

Buffet table with pastries, cereals, and drinks, decorated with greenery and flowers, in a modern kitchen setting.

Woman with makeup and hair accessories taking a selfie outdoors at night, with a red carpet and dark background.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.