Interview: What It's Like Owning LA's Most Popular Soul Food Restaurant

Inglewood, CA, known as the City of Champions, is home to some of the best Black-owned restaurants. From your good ol’ American style breakfast to Jamaican food, you’re sure to find something to appease your palette. But ask any Inglewood-native and they’ll tell you The Serving Spoon is a soul food staple in the city.

Harold E. Sparks left his job in Hamilton, Ohio in the ‘80s and moved to Inglewood to fulfill his dream of opening a soul food restaurant. His daughter and son-in-law took over at one point and more recently, his granddaughter Jessica and grandson Justin, became the new owners. “The Spoon,” as it's called, is a favorite here in the city and I had the pleasure of sitting down with my friend, Jessica, about the importance of family ownership and advice to all future entrepreneurs.

Growing up, did you ever plan to or think that you would one day take over the restaurant?

“Not at all... I always thought that working at The Spoon was a key asset in my ability to understand people; however, I didn't think I would ever want to become the owner. My youngest brother on the other hand always wanted to run it, so finally after 15 years in my former professional life, we spoke and came up with a plan.”

How important is it to keep things in the family?

“Extremely important, especially now being there day to day realizing all the memories I had as a child, seeing my children create memories, all the way to seeing customers that have been around since the beginning. It is proven over and over that we are a staple in the community, and in today's society it is rare to truly find a place as welcoming and warm as us. Many of our customers have become like family, and we strive to maintain those experiences.”

Do you plan on passing it down to your children?

“Honestly, if my children decide they want to invest and purchase the business, absolutely. As it stands right now, my oldest is infatuated with cooking and cooking utensils, and he is only two. Both of my boys also thoroughly enjoy dining on the food here as well.”

What’s it like owning a restaurant that is a huge part of LA culture?

“Some days it is really fun, other days, challenging, but most days I have left with a sense of pride and appreciation, in being able to serve our community. No matter what your status is, we strive to give everyone a positive and memorable experience. We take pride in making sure our community has quality food for breakfast or lunch that makes it seem like you are at a family gathering, with good music and food because 'ain't no betta breakfast'.”

What are the biggest challenges you face being a young restaurateur?

“Some of our biggest challenges thus far is what I think anyone would have as a new business owner, not knowing what you don't know. However, my brother and I are solution driven, so right now we are really in the midst of constantly refining our priorities.”

Things people would be surprised to know about The Serving Spoon and the behind the scenes culture?

“The names on the menu, they are or were real people with ties to key memories of The Spoon... we will be bringing back a hybrid of all three generations as a complete representation.”

Any advice for young entrepreneurs?

“If you have the desire to be an entrepreneur, make sure you know your why. All days may not be sunny, sacrifices must be made, but if you remember and know your why, then that will keep you going. Roll up your sleeves, maintain your humility, but never dim your light because you think you shouldn't shine as bright, because you should!”

What does the future look like for The Serving Spoon?

“The future of The Serving Spoon is bright, we are at the moment, learning as much as we can, and using our knowledge from past careers, current resources and future visions.”

If you’re ever in Inglewood, please be sure to stop by ‘The Spoon.’ Jessica and Justin are keeping the traditions going, providing an environment where you’ll feel like part of the family the moment you walk in. Make sure you have an empty stomach because you’ll want to order everything and tell them Taj sent you!

The Serving Spoon

1403 Centinela Ave.

Inglewood, CA 90302

Mon-Sun 8-2pm