Bertha’s Kitchen Receives $50,000 Grant for Renovations

North Charleston, August 29, 2025

News Summary

Bertha’s Kitchen in North Charleston has been awarded a $50,000 grant to support renovations that will help preserve its legacy. This funding comes from the 2025 Backing Historic Small Restaurants program, showcasing commitment to classic dining establishments. Famous for authentic Gullah Geechee cuisine, the restaurant plans to use the funds for essential exterior improvements and a mural honoring its founder. Operations will continue during renovations expected to be completed by January 2026, securing its role as a community hub.

North Charleston – Bertha’s Kitchen, a beloved soul food restaurant established in 1981, has received a $50,000 grant to fund renovations and preserve its legacy. This grant is part of the 2025 Backing Historic Small Restaurants program, which aims to assist iconic dining establishments across the nation.

This grant initiative is sponsored by American Express and managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Originally launched in 2020, the program has distributed over $8 million to 180 historic restaurants throughout all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The financial assistance is specifically designed to help time-honored eateries adapt and thrive post-pandemic.

Bertha’s Kitchen is famous for its authentic Gullah Geechee cuisine, attracting a wide array of patrons with its signature dishes such as baked and fried chicken, pork chops, okra soup, red rice, and collard greens. The restaurant’s reputation was further solidified when it was honored as an American Classic by the James Beard Foundation in 2017, highlighting its importance in American culinary traditions.

Currently owned by Albertha Grant’s daughters, Linda Pinckney and Julia Grant, Bertha’s Kitchen has been a vital community hub in the Union Heights neighborhood of North Charleston. During renovations, which are expected to conclude by January 2026, operations will continue as usual, with the grant funds earmarked for exterior upgrades. Planned improvements include a new awning, fresh paint, replacement windows and doors, plus a mural honoring Albertha Grant on the restaurant’s façade.

Although the two sisters previously considered selling the restaurant due to retirement plans, they ultimately decided to continue their mother’s legacy by keeping Bertha’s Kitchen operational. As a vital source of affordable meals, the restaurant also plays a significant role in supporting local churches and community centers.

Bertha’s Kitchen is located at 2332 Meeting Street Road and operates from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. The community significance of restaurants like Bertha’s Kitchen is underscored by Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, who noted that such establishments serve as gathering places for sharing stories and building connections.

In addition to Bertha’s Kitchen, Hannibal’s Kitchen in Charleston also received a $50,000 grant from the same program in 2024, showcasing the ongoing commitment to preserving historic restaurants that embody local culture and history. This initiative not only aids these restaurants in upgrading their facilities but also serves to honor their role in the community.

Key Details of the Grant for Bertha’s Kitchen

• Grant Amount: $50,000
• Program: 2025 Backing Historic Small Restaurants
• Funded By: American Express
• Administered By: National Trust for Historic Preservation
• Founded In: 1981
• Current Owners: Linda Pinckney and Julia Grant (daughters of Albertha Grant)
• Restaurant Location: 2332 Meeting Street Road
• Operational Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday
• Expected Renovation Completion: January 2026

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Additional Resources

• Count on 2 News
• Post and Courier
• Charleston City Paper
• iHeart Radio
• Bon Appétit
• Wikipedia: Gullah
• Google Search: Bertha’s Kitchen
• Google Scholar: Bertha’s Kitchen
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gullah
• Google News: Bertha’s Kitchen

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