If you visit BLK Swan on a Sunday evening this month, you might feel like you’re stepping into a family gathering. With the sounds of Stevie Wonder humming in the background and laughter filling the room, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. A big family might squeeze through the door, seeming just as alive and chaotic as any family reunion.
This is all part of Soul Food Sundays, a special event at BLK Swan celebrating Black History Month. Here, the team aims to recreate the cherished feeling of Sunday dinners, which have long been a cornerstone of Black family life.
Chris Simon, co-owner of BLK Swan, shares, “It’s not just the food. It’s about the conversations—the laughter, the big news, and the updates on what’s happening in life.”
Food does play a starring role. Chef James “JR” Robinson, a New York native known for his Southern cuisine, has joined forces with Simon to craft these meals. Simon praises Robinson’s work, highlighting the collaboration as a way to uplift the community. Robinson himself notes, “This is about unity. It’s not a competition; we support each other.”
In Baltimore, plenty of soul food spots exist, but Simon isn’t trying to compete. Instead, he’s paying tribute while providing an elevated dining experience. Throughout February, diners can enjoy these special Sunday meals.
At the kickoff event, guests were treated like long-lost cousins. Birthday celebrations unfolded, and even couples shared dance moments over drinks, highlighting the joy of the occasion.
For Robinson, Soul Food Sundays carry a personal touch. He lost his grandmother during the pandemic, someone who deeply influenced his cooking. “This is my way of feeling her presence,” he says, revealing how each dish connects him to his roots.
His black-eyed peas stand out for a simple reason—they’re not quick and prepped from a can. These come from dried beans he soaks for four days. “This patience is rare in fast-food culture,” he points out.
The menu features classic Sunday staples like crispy catfish, jerk turkey wings, baked salmon, creamy mac and cheese, and more. While some recipes will vary each week to keep things fresh, traditional roots are always at the core.
Guests are responding enthusiastically. Deanna Robinson praises the jerk turkey wings, claiming they’re “fall-off-the-bone” delicious. Another diner, Rico Love, saw the announcement for Soul Food Sundays on Instagram and booked a reservation immediately. He reflects on the inviting energies and how the food met his expectations, particularly the crispy catfish.
Interestingly, a recent survey revealed that 78% of diners prefer experiencing local cuisines that evoke cultural heritage over mainstream dining options. This shift shows the growing importance of community and tradition in food choices today.
Events like Soul Food Sundays offer more than just a meal; they foster community, connection, and a celebration of culture. So, if you’re looking for good food and great company, you might just find it at BLK Swan this February.
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