‘Today isn’t easy.’ Family-run soul food restaurant in Charlotte closes after 23 years
A beloved soul food restaurant in Charlotte permanently closed over the weekend, just months after one of its owners died.
Family-owned La’Wan’s Soul Food Restaurant at 7520 S. Tryon St. closed Sunday after 23 years in operation, the restaurant announced Saturday on its social media sites in a statement signed by co-owner La’Wan Adams and family. The city staple was known for home-style dishes like grilled pork chops and barbecue turkey ribs.
“We have faced unforeseen challenges that have made it increasingly difficult to continue operating at the level of excellence that you deserve,” the restaurant’s social media post said.
On May 28, co-owner Kenneth “Kenny” Adams died at age 61 after a three-year battle with colorectal cancer, wife La’Wan Douglas Adams had announced on social media. Since then, however, the restaurant had remained opened.
“We are humbled by the memories we’ve created together and the impact we’ve had on each other’s lives. As we close this chapter, we hold onto the hope that our paths will cross again in the future,” the post said.
However, the post hints at “new endeavors” in the future, with plans to keep the restaurant’s social media sites open for updates on the next chapter. “As we navigate this difficult time, we also embrace the opportunities ahead. As we embark on this new adventure, Kenneth’s legacy will always be kept alive,” the post said.
Reaction to La’Wan’s Soul Food closing
Community reaction to La’Wan’s closing was swift on the restaurant’s social media sites with sadness over the closing and well wishes for the future.
“I’m so grateful to have gotten to meet you and Kenneth. I’m so happy that y’all had many years of great food and friendships with so many in the community,” Piper Urbinato said on Facebook.
“Thank you for the many years of wonderful food and beautiful smiles. You will be missed,” Amanda Harris also said on Facebook.
Charlotte City Councilwoman Renee Perkins Johnson, who represents District 4, said: “Best wishes on your next chapter. You will be missed.”
Many farewells came from people outside of Charlotte and North Carolina too.
Gregory Eaton of Harlem, N.Y. Eaton said he always stopped at La’Wan’s while in Charlotte. “Food and service were consistently great!”
From Atlanta, Tammy Holdip said her family stopped at La’Wan’s while in town for football games. “Your establishment will be missed as we always received great customer service and delicious food every trip.”
In a final post Sunday, La’Wan’s said: “Today isn’t easy, but please know that this isn’t the end of the La’Wan’s era.”
This story was originally published August 28, 2023 at 6:05 AM.