Beloved Charlotte Black-Owned Soul Food Restaurant Nana Morrison’s Expands to Cary
CARY, NC – The popular Black family-owned soul food restaurant, Nana Morrison’s Soul Food, is bringing its celebrated Southern homestyle cooking to the Triangle! Known for its authentic flavors and rich history, Nana Morrison’s will open its fourth location in Cary early next year at 2052 Renaissance Park Place, replacing BurgerFi in the Arboretum Retail & Restaurant Center.
This marks a significant milestone for the Charlotte-based restaurant as it ventures into a new market while maintaining its legacy of quality and community connection. The Cary location is expected to open in the third week of January 2025, offering Triangle residents a taste of their famous fried chicken, smothered pork chops, fried fish, and hearty Southern sides like collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and candied yams.
A Family Legacy of Flavor and Growth
Nana Morrison’s Soul Food was founded in 2011 by Shawn and Kiana Morrison after moving from New York to Charlotte. Frustrated by the lack of soul food options, they created a space to share the authentic Southern cuisine they loved. Over the years, the restaurant has earned a devoted following thanks to its home-cooked meals and welcoming atmosphere.
The Morrisons have built a family-driven business, with each of their children playing an active role in the company’s expansion. From managing existing locations to spearheading new openings, the Morrison siblings have embraced their shared vision of growth and excellence.
Cary Location and More Expansion Ahead
The new Cary location will be the first Nana Morrison’s restaurant in the Triangle area, with plans to open their fifth location at RedStone in Indian Land, South Carolina, shortly after. The RedStone location at 9725 RedStone Drive will feature a 2,353-square-foot space with an outdoor patio. It’s slated to open in early to mid-February 2025.
Both new restaurants will stay true to the Nana Morrison’s promise: a menu filled with Southern classics that blend tradition with bold flavors. Whether it’s baked, fried, smothered, or barbecued, every dish reflects the love and care that have made Nana Morrison’s a household name.
Meet the Morrison Family
The strength behind Nana Morrison’s lies in its family roots, with each Morrison sibling contributing their unique talents to the business:
- Shawn Morrison Jr., the eldest, oversees the flagship Charlotte location and has driven its growth year after year.
- Hank Morrison leads the charge in Florida with the Port St. Lucie location, focusing on job creation and community engagement.
- Gabriella Morrison, the youngest General Manager at just 16, manages the Corning Place Charlotte location and leads marketing and payroll innovations.
- Aaron Morrison, the youngest sibling, supports staffing and dreams of developing new menu items while continuing the family legacy.
Together, the Morrisons have turned their passion for food and community into a thriving business poised for continued success.
A Taste of What’s to Come
With its upcoming Cary location, Nana Morrison’s Soul Food promises to bring the same delicious offerings and welcoming vibe that have made its Charlotte locations a hit. Whether you’re craving fried chicken, soulful sides, or sweet desserts, Nana Morrison’s will soon be the Triangle’s go-to spot for authentic Southern cuisine.
For updates on the Cary opening and more about Nana Morrison’s Soul Food, visit their website or follow them on social media. Get ready, Cary—soul food is on its way!