Commending Croaker's Spot.

2026, 1st Special Session Introduced by Lamont Bagby

SR 2051 commends Croaker's Spot for its 25-year milestone, recognizing its cultural, historical, and community role as a landmark in Richmond and Petersburg.

Bill text as passed Senate (SR2051ER)

Summary of SR 2051 (2026 Session, Virginia)

Purpose and intent

This is a ceremonial resolution (Senate Resolution) commending Croaker's Spot, a long-standing Black-owned restaurant in the Richmond area, on the occasion of its 25th anniversary in 2026.

The resolution expresses the Senate of Virginia’s admiration for Croaker's Spot and recognizes its historical significance, community contributions, and role as a Virginia landmark.

Key provisions and changes

Official commendation: The resolution formalizes praise for Croaker's Spot from the Virginia Senate.

Historical background included: Provides a narrative of Croaker's Spot’s origins, including:

The restaurant’s name origin tied to Mr. Croaker, a Harlem Renaissance-era figure known in jazz circles.
The connection to Neverett “Sugarfoot” Eggleston III and the Eggleston family legacy in Richmond.
Croaker's Spot’s growth from Harlem private club origins to a Richmond restaurant in 2001, with two current locations (Manchester neighborhood and Historic Old Towne Petersburg).

Acknowledgments of significance:

Croaker's Spot as a cornerstone of Richmond’s Black-owned business community.
Media recognition (e.g., featured in America’s Best Restaurants) and the 2011 Hoodie Award for Best Soul Food.

Official action:

The Clerk of the Senate is tasked with preparing and presenting a copy of the resolution to Sherita McGowan, the current owner of Croaker's Spot.

Who or what would be affected

Croaker's Spot (the business and its ownership, particularly Sherita McGowan) would receive formal recognition from the Virginia Senate.

The broader impact is symbolic: it highlights and honors the restaurant’s history, contributions to the community, and role in preserving Black-owned business presence in Richmond.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Type of measure: Non-binding ceremonial resolution.

Sponsorship: Primary sponsor is Senator Bagby; Co-sponsor is Senator Lamont Bagby.

Action history:

Presented and laid on the Clerk’s desk on June 18, 2026.

No fiscal impact or statutory changes are attached to this bill; it serves as an official commendation rather than law.

Practical takeaway

SR 2051 commemorates Croaker's Spot for its 25-year milestone, honoring its cultural, historical, and community significance in the Richmond area and Petersburg, and formalizes the acknowledgment through an official Senate resolution.