Serving Spoon in Inglewood Earns National Recognition with James Beard Award
Inglewood Restaurant Receives James Beard Award
INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The Serving Spoon, a family-owned soul food restaurant, has been honored with the prestigious American Classics Award from the James Beard Foundation, marking a significant achievement in its more than 40-year history.
Founded in 1983 by Howard Sparks, the restaurant has been passed down to his grandchildren, Jessica Bain and Justin Johnson. The award recognizes the establishment as one of only six nationwide that exemplifies America’s culinary traditions.
Howard Sparks initially opened a barbecue restaurant, but after it closed, he pivoted to offering soul food breakfasts, drawing inspiration from his own experiences. He even brought his mother from Ohio to verify the authenticity of the dishes he served.
The restaurant has garnered a loyal following in Inglewood, known for its southern-style comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. One patron described it as "family, it’s heritage, it is love,” while another noted, “once you take that first bite, you’re for sure gonna come back every time."
The recognition from the James Beard Foundation cements The Serving Spoon’s place in a distinguished group that includes iconic restaurants in Las Vegas, Omaha, and Philadelphia, underscoring its significant impact on the community and American cuisine.
