After Reconstruction Murray created a catering business serving the elite of New Orleans.[1]
Murray gained celebrity status after she served as Chef de Cuisine at the Louisiana Mansion Club at the 1893 Chicago World Fair.[3][4] The Times-Democrat, referring to her appearance there, called her "the celebrated cook".[5] According to historian Zella Palmer of Dillard University, as a result of her work at the fair, Murray "became an instant celebrity and society ladies in Chicago, New York, Paris and New Orleans booked her months in advance."[3]
The Daily Picayune in 1894 wrote, "Do you know Nellie Murray? To admit that you do not is confession that you are not a member of the New Orleans Four Hundred."[1] The paper called her the "Queen of New Orleans Creole Cuisine".[3] She made a world tour in the late 19th century.[1]
According to Palmer, by the time of her death Murray had "gained legendary status worldwide".[1][3][4] Palmer called Murray "the most famed caterer of elite New Orleans society".[3]
Murray spoke out against the New Orleans laws segregating street cars.[1]
