CBS Philly Celebrates

Black History Month

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By Cherri Gregg

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Known first for his dedication to soul food, KeVen Parker is the founder and owner of Miss Tootsie’s Soul Food, Miss Tootie’s Restaurant Bar Lounge, and a number of other companies dedicated to his eat-drink-sleep philosphy and his vision of creating a destination on South Street.

“I never thought Miss Tootsie’s would be a temporary staple,” Parker says. “I knew that it would be a permanent landmark in Philadelphia.”

Fifteen years ago, the West Philadelphia native quit his job and, with his mother, known as Miss Tootsie, opened their restaurant on faith.

“I always looked at Philly as a diamond in the rough,” he says.

Now, Miss Tootsie’s and Parker are becoming synonymous with soulful Philadelphia style.  And he says his style is as eclectic the city itself:

“In Philly, you get a little bit of DC, you get a little bit of New York, but it’s Philly.  It’s every thing you could ever wish for or hope for.”

Hear Cherri Gregg’s full interview with KeVen Parker in this CBS Philly podcast…

Download the podcast (runs 8′ 25″)