RICHMOND, Va. — Sherita McGowan's journey from part-time host to owner of Croker's Spot restaurants in Richmond and Petersburg is “definitely a lot to be proud of.”
The entrepreneur attributes much of her success to the Eggleston family's heritage in Richmond's historic Jackson Ward.
“They started with the Eggleston Hotel on Second and Lee in the 1930s to 1950s,” McGowan said. “And that's the grandfather of the original owner of Croker Spot, and between his grandfather and his son and his third generation of Eggleston, they've owned multiple businesses in the city of Richmond. Ta.”
WTVR
McGowan is keeping Eggleston's history alive.
“What they brought to this city was love, good food, good music and good vibes,” McGowan said. “And it's a place where you can go and feel comfortable and have fun. So I think what they started and what we've continued to do is what continues to attract people. .”
WTVR
Crocker's Spot has been a part of the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience created by Shemisia Bowen, Kelly Lemon, and Amy Wentz since the event's inception in 2017.
“This gives us a way to show that we have prominent and successful Black-owned restaurants and businesses as well,” McGowan explained. “It also created new business that didn’t exist before.”
WTVR
Event coordinator Jess Synder said the team had just hosted Heart and Soul Winterfest in Massanutten and was gearing up for the week-long event from March 10th to 17th. It is said that there is.
“Our goal is to bring awareness to the restaurants, caterers, food and Black businesses that have truly contributed to keeping our cities vibrant and thriving,” Sinder said.
WTVR
The week promises to be a celebration of food, music, art and community, with Mobile Soul Sunday, a celebration of Black-owned food trucks and caterers, serving as a highlight.
“On Friday, March 15th, we're also hosting an event called 'Art for the Soul,' where we're working with Studio Two Three to celebrate the arts here,” Synder said.
WTVR
The economic impact of this event raised millions of dollars and supported local nonprofit organizations.
Also, keep an eye out for an expanded version of Mobile Soul Sunday in Old Town Petersburg on April 14th.
This week would not be possible without the help of our team, as well as our sponsors and volunteers,” said Synder, adding, “Dominion, Primis, Richmond Regional Tourism and BLK RVA, Break Through Beverages, all Thank you for your cooperation.” That concludes this week. ”
Richmond Black Restaurant Experience
More than 35 restaurants will be participating in RBRE, offering meals such as Seafood Sampler at Croker's Spot.
McGowan's dream of creating a 24-hour daycare took a different path, but it's one she wouldn't change.
“I'm telling them I'm in adult day care 24 hours a day now,” McGowan said. “Yes, you may work for me, but you are my family. And they feel the love. The biggest factor between the food here and the staff is love. ”
WTVR
The 8th Annual Richmond Black Restaurant Experience kicked off with Mobile Soul Sunday at Monroe Park.
Click here to learn more about the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience. Click here for a list of participating restaurants.
Are you aware of good news happening in your community? click here Email WTVR.com and the CBS 6 news team.
We want to hear from you too!If you know someone who should create a profile, please send us an email [email protected].
Check out unique, award-winning stories celebrating the voices of the community at CBS 6 News.
