October 15th 2023.
On October 13th, St. Rest Country Kitchen celebrated their 50th anniversary. This South Side restaurant is the oldest-running Black-owned soul food restaurant in the city of Chicago. Founded in 1972 by Rev. Larry Hopkins, St. Rest Country Kitchen has been passed down through two generations.
The current owners, Daniella Coffey and her husband John, took over the business in 2021 and faced a difficult task. The restaurant was facing severe financial debt, an astounding $600,000, and was on the brink of foreclosure. Despite the challenge, Coffey and her family were determined and within a year they had restructured and paid off the debt.
The restaurant has continued to keep the traditions alive that it was founded upon. Sophia Hopkins, the 77-year-old matriarch, has been the lead waitress since its opening. Along with great customer service, sanitation, and food, faith is also a major pillar of St. Rest Country Kitchen. General Manager Angela Chatman said, “As soon as you walk through the doors, everyone is family. That’s just how it is Down South back in the day.”
St. Rest Country Kitchen is open Friday through Sunday and serves classic soul food dishes. Menu items include smothered pork chops, short ribs, cabbage, mac and cheese, candied yams, and more. Daniella Coffey left the outlet with an inspiring message for women everywhere. She said, “You don’t need another person to validate you. You have everything that you need in your hands. The only thing left is for you to use it.”
St. Rest Country Kitchen is more than just a restaurant; it's a symbol of resilience and hard work. This historical landmark in the Black community has endured for 50 years and will continue to serve the city of Chicago for generations to come.
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