Commending Croaker's Spot.

2026, 1st Special Session Introduced by Betsy Carr and 2 co-sponsors

The bill ceremonially commends Croaker's Spot for 25 years as a landmark Black-owned restaurant in Richmond, recognizing its cultural, historical, and community contributions.

Bill text as passed House (HR2127ER)

Summary of HR 2127 (2026S1, Virginia)

Purpose and Intent

This House resolution commends Croaker's Spot, a longtime Black-owned, full-service restaurant in the Richmond area, on the occasion of its 25th anniversary (celebrated in 2026).

The resolution recognizes Croaker's Spot as a Virginia landmark with historical significance, community impact, and cultural value rooted in its Southern hospitality and soul food tradition.

Key Provisions

Proclamation: The Virginia House of Delegates officially commends Croaker's Spot for its 25-year milestone and its role in the local community.

Presentation: The Clerk of the House of Delegates is directed to prepare and present a copy of the resolution to Sherita McGowan, the current owner, as a formal expression of the House’s admiration for the restaurant’s history and contributions.

Who/What Is Affected

Croaker's Spot (Richmond) and its ownership (Sherita McGowan) are the primary subjects of the commendation.

The broader impact extends to the Richmond Black-owned business community and local cultural/history recognition.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Bill Type: House resolution (non-binding, ceremonial).

Introduced: June 17, 2026 (Special Session I).

Action: Presented and laid on the Speaker’s table on June 17, 2026.

Sponsors: Primary sponsor Rae Cousins; co-sponsor listed as Schmidt.

Notable Context (from the bill text)

Croaker's Spot is described as the oldest Black-owned, full-service restaurant in continuous operation in the Richmond area.

The restaurant’s history ties back to Croaker (Mr. Croaker) of Jackson Ward, his Harlem Renaissance-era connections, and the Eggleston family legacy in Richmond.

Croaker's Spot has two locations in Richmond (Manchester neighborhood) and Petersburg (Historic Old Towne), and has received national recognition (e.g., featured in America’s Best Restaurants; Hoodie Award in 2011 for Best Soul Food).

The bill underscores the restaurant’s role in regional culinary culture and community leadership.

Practical Impact

The resolution serves as a formal, symbolic recognition by the Virginia General Assembly.

It provides a ceremonial highlight that could bolster community pride, local heritage appreciation, and visibility for Croaker's Spot as a cornerstone of Richmond’s Black-owned business history.

If you’d like, I can add a brief glossary of terms or compare this resolution to typical ceremonial resolutions in Virginia to provide additional context.