Locol's Comeback: Reviving Soul Food and Empowering Watts

When Locol, the innovative fast-food restaurant, shuttered its doors in 2018, it left a void in the Watts community. But now, the eatery is making a triumphant return, this time as a nonprofit incubator focused on serving up soul food and providing employment opportunities to local youth. Chefs Keith Corbin and Daniel Patterson have teamed up to breathe new life into Locol, creating a space that not only nourishes the body but also the spirit of the community.

Reviving the Heart and Soul of Watts

Reconnecting with the Community

The reopening of Locol in Watts is more than just a business venture; it's a deeply personal mission for Corbin and Patterson. When the original location closed in 2018, it left a gaping hole in the neighborhood's culinary landscape, with the loss of several beloved soul food establishments. Corbin, who first started working at Locol after serving an 11-year prison sentence, understood the importance of these eateries to the community. He reached out to Watts locals, seeking their input on what they wanted to see in a revived Locol. The resounding response was clear: soul food.

Honoring Tradition, Embracing Innovation

The new Locol menu pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of the Watts community, while also introducing a fresh, modern twist. Alongside the beloved burgers and foldies, the restaurant now offers a selection of soul food classics, including barbecue brisket, fried chicken, and a variety of plates featuring ribs, sausage, and tofu. These hearty dishes are served with cornbread and a choice of sides like red beans and rice, collard greens, and mac and cheese. For dessert, diners can indulge in a springy 7-Up cake, a nod to the neighborhood's nostalgic flavors.

Fostering Community Connections

Corbin and Patterson's vision for Locol extends beyond just serving delicious food; they aim to create a space that truly belongs to the Watts community. The chefs emphasize that they're not as concerned with attracting outsiders as they are with catering to the local residents. They encourage diners to speak up if they're not enjoying the food, promising to address any concerns within the community, just as Corbin experienced growing up in the projects.

Empowering the Next Generation

At the heart of Locol's revival is a commitment to providing employment and training opportunities for young people in the Watts area. The restaurant operates as a nonprofit incubator, with a rotating staff of workers sourced through the Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board. These young individuals, aged 14 to 24, receive compensation for their training and on-the-job experience, giving them a chance to develop valuable skills and gain a foothold in the workforce.

A Beacon of Hope and Resilience

Corbin's personal journey has deeply shaped his vision for Locol. Having faced the challenges of incarceration and the barriers to employment, he is determined to pay it forward and create opportunities for others in his community. He speaks passionately about the sacrifices made by those who came before him, and his unwavering dedication to uplifting the Watts neighborhood.As Locol reopens its doors, it stands as a symbol of hope and resilience, not just for the restaurant industry, but for the entire Watts community. Corbin and Patterson's commitment to serving soul food and empowering local youth is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives to transform lives and revitalize neighborhoods. In a year marked by restaurant comebacks, Locol's revival is a shining example of how a shared vision and a deep connection to place can create lasting change.