Black Business Highlight: Big L’s Soul Food and Steakhouse

In South Minneapolis, right across from George Floyd Square, Big L’s Soul Food and Steakhouse is more than just a restaurant; it’s a community hub. Owner Larry Robinson transformed his food truck into this welcoming eatery, aiming to uplift the neighborhood.

Starting as a food truck nearly four years ago, Big L’s quickly gained popularity. Robinson served classic soul food, including greens, macaroni and cheese, and fried chicken, but the limitations of a food truck became clear as demand grew. “The truck became too complicated and small,” he said.

Minnesota winters complicated things further, making it hard to serve customers reliably. “Come wintertime, we couldn’t work. People were always trying to figure out if we were open,” he shared. This uncertainty pushed Robinson to look for a permanent location, which he found at 805 E. 28th St.

At first, the location’s connection to George Floyd Square was secondary for Robinson, but it soon became clear how significant it was. “It made it an even better situation because it’s community-based,” he explained. His restaurant is dedicated to serving the community and fostering positive change.

Community is at the heart of Big L’s mission. Robinson hopes his restaurant can bring a renewed sense of hope to the area. “We’re here to change the narrative,” he said.

Transitioning from a food truck to a full restaurant came with its own hurdles. Robinson acknowledges the challenges small businesses face, especially with rising costs and operational demands. Still, he believes in hard work. “You can’t give up. You’ve got to keep striving,” he said, reflecting on his journey.

Robinson’s determination has guided him through tough times. When challenges arise, he focuses on solving them rather than giving up. “We figured out some kinks and we made it work,” he stated, hinting at the adaptability that has defined his approach.

With a solid location and a growing customer base, Robinson is excited about the future. He envisions Big L’s as a place where people can connect, share stories, and feel included.

As Minneapolis evolves, establishments like Big L’s are crucial for community development. Robinson’s commitment to his work and the surrounding neighborhood will undoubtedly shape what’s next for both his business and the community.

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