Mary Bass shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Mary, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
Honestly, it’s my team. Guests see the food, the events, the kolaches with funny names — but what they don’t see is the heart behind it all. I’ve built a group of people who show up, hustle, and care as much as I do. They’re the ones washing dishes at midnight after a wedding, rolling dough at 5 a.m., or keeping the wheels turning when I’m pulled in ten directions. You can’t buy that kind of loyalty or passion — you have to build it, nurture it, and be grateful every day. My proudest creation isn’t on a plate — it’s the family I’ve built in the kitchen.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Chef Mary Bass. I’ve spent the last 15+ years feeding Galveston County through my catering company. Along the way I have built a family of brands including Good Dough Kolache Bakery, La Mesa Cooking Studio, and La Cocina Market. What makes my brand unique is that we don’t just cook — we create experiences. From kolaches with names like “Show Me Your Bloobs” to private dinners at our Buen Provecho Table to 500-person galas, food is always at the center, but laughter and community are what tie it all together. I’m proud of building spaces where people can gather, eat well, and feel connected — because food should be joyful, memorable, and just a little bit mischievous.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
I’ve been lucky enough to be surrounded by strong women my whole life. My Grandma Mary showed me the value of grit and feeding people with love. My Aunt Bunny taught me resilience and that no job is beneath you if it gets the work done. Chef Cheryl Lewis, who trained me, pushed me to refine my craft and carry myself with professionalism in the kitchen. And honestly, there have been countless other ladies along the way who’ve each added to the way I approach work — with strength, creativity, and determination.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yesterday. And probably the day before that too. We always say, “There is no crying in catering”! Running food businesses means there are plenty of “throw in the towel” moments — but instead I just pivot my attitude, grab a cup of coffee, and remind myself that quitting isn’t nearly as fun as proving myself wrong.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
Personal responsibility is what leads to success. People love to talk about luck, timing, or opportunity — and those matter — but at the end of the day, you have to own your choices. Show up, do the work, learn from mistakes, and keep going. That mindset has carried me further than any shortcut ever could.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
That I did it alone. The truth is, nothing I’ve built happened in a vacuum. I’ve had incredible teams, mentors, friends, and family lifting me up every step of the way. My name might be on the sign, but the legacy belongs to all the people who walked alongside me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chefmarybass.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@chefmarybass
- Facebook: @chefmarybass
- Yelp: Chef Mary Bass
Image Credits
Mallory Lane Photography
Koby Brown
Elizabeth Brown
Katy Cox
