“From my kitchen to yours, my goal is to provide nourishing foods that make a difference.” — Lauralie

Hi, I’m Lauralie — a wife, mama to two wonderful kids, personal chef, and founder of Tolia Foods. I’m Congolese by heritage, and today, I call St. Louis home — the place where I get to do what I love most: create nourishing meals that bring people together.

I’m passionate about clean, intentional cooking — both in my own kitchen and for others. I believe deeply in the power of real food made with care.

My mother and aunties are incredible home cooks, and my grandmother is a professional chef and restaurateur. She’s also a longtime advocate for clean cooking. From her, I learned that for centuries, the secret to great food always started with using real, fresh ingredients, not additives.

As for me, like many, I was familiar with the constant presence of bouillon cubes in the modern everyday cooking — a go-to shortcut in so many kitchens. But over time, I looked closer at what was actually inside those powders and cubes: artificial ingredients, unnecessary additives, and excess sodium.

That’s when I realized — they weren’t so convenient after all.

I went searching for a better way. I wanted something versatile and deeply flavorful — something that would simplify cooking while adding soulful depth, but made only with real, recognizable ingredients. Clean. Honest. Nourishing.


That’s how Tolia Foods was born.

My purpose is to make nourishing foods that make a difference. I do that as a personal chef, cooking for families looking for a convenient way eat well without the hassle. In addition, I also serve wellness-focused home cooks and professionals by offering small-batch bouillons and Pure Congolese Cinnamon crafted with care — blending cultural roots and wellness into every jar. From our aromatic bouillons to our golden-ground Congolese cinnamon, everything is made to support mindful, everyday cooking.

Whether you’re stocking your pantry or letting me cook for you as your personal chef, I’m honored to be part of your journey to eat well.

Thank you for cooking — and eating — mindfully.

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ABOUT TOLIA FOODS

Tolia Foods is a woman-owned, Central Africa-inspired food company founded in Saint Louis, MO. We fulfil our purpose by serving you foods only made with organic, real, wholesome ingredients that contribute to a thriving healthy lifestyle.

Tolia Foods!

THE STORY BEHIND THE NAME

The name "Tolia Foods" captures our mission essence perfectly, as "Tolia" (Pronouned /TOH-lee-uh/) which means "let’s eat" in Lingala, a Bantu language spoken in the Congo. I see "Tolia" as more than just a word; it’s an invitation to enjoy great food, good company, and a cheerful atmosphere. In addition, Tolia Foods is a reminder to eat foods that nourish our bodies, Tolia Foods reminds us to "Eat Real Foods".

Cheers to real foods!

OUR CORE VALUES

ADVENTURE, ENJOYMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

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  • ADVENTURE

    At Tolia Foods, we believe that every meal is an opportunity to embark on a new FlavorFull journey.

  • ENJOYMENT

    Tolia Foods' isn't just our name; it's an invitation to relish the joy of eating great foods. We understand the sheer happiness a well-cooked meal can bring. That's why we're committed to turn every meal, dessert or handcrafted drink into a reason for cheer. With Tolia Foods, it's always time to say, 'Let's eat and let's celebrate with great food!

  • SUSTAINABILITY

    For Tolia Foods, sustainability isn't a trend; it's a tradition. Our approach ensures that our packaging is sustainable, our ingredients are ethically sourced, and that we nurture the communities we serve. We take pride in providing flavors that respect both people and the planet.