A beloved North Charleston soul food landmark has been awarded national recognition and support. Bertha’s Kitchen, a family-run restaurant known for its traditional Gullah Geechee cuisine, recently received a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express through the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program.
A Legacy of Gullah Geechee Cuisine
Founded more than 40 years ago by Albertha Grant, Bertha’s Kitchen has remained a staple in the Union Heights neighborhood. Now operated by her daughters, the restaurant still serves iconic Lowcountry dishes like:
Red rice
Okra soup
Collard greens
Bertha’s influence stretches beyond food. The restaurant was honored at the Matriarchs of the Lowcountry exhibit in the South Carolina State Museum and received the prestigious “America’s Classics” award from the James Beard Foundation.
Community Lifeline
Natalie Woodward, associate manager for the program, said Bertha’s is more than just a restaurant:
“More than a restaurant, Bertha’s is a lifeline for its Union Heights neighborhood, where dining and grocery options are scarce. It provides affordable meals, supports churches and community centers, and offers a welcoming gathering place.”
Plans for the Grant
The $50,000 grant will help Bertha’s Kitchen make upgrades while staying true to its roots. Planned improvements include:
Fresh exterior paint in turquoise and purple
A mural of founder Albertha Grant on the side of the building
Installation of a handicap-accessible ramp
Part of a National Program
Bertha’s Kitchen is one of 50 restaurants nationwide selected for the 2025 Backing Historic Small Restaurants program. The initiative celebrates restaurants that preserve cultural traditions and serve as cornerstones of their communities.
Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, emphasized the importance of places like Bertha’s:
“These restaurants demonstrate the power that places hold. For generations, neighbors have gathered here, shared stories, made new connections, and enjoyed regional cuisine that often reflects our nation’s global roots.”
Visit Bertha’s Kitchen
Locals and visitors alike can experience Bertha’s Kitchen at 2332 Meeting Street Road. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For over four decades, Bertha’s Kitchen has been a beacon of culture, comfort, and community in North Charleston. With this grant, the restaurant will not only preserve its history but also expand accessibility and celebrate its legacy through vibrant new updates.
