Mr. Croaker’s story begins in Richmond, Virginia’s Jackson Ward neighborhood — once known as “Little Africa,” a thriving hub of Black professionals and entrepreneurs. Nicknamed for the croaking sound of his voice and warm laugh, Mr. Croaker carried himself with a smooth, soulful flair that left a lasting impression. After graduating from Armstrong High School, he made his way to Harlem, New York — affectionately known as “Harlem USA” — where he found community among artists, musicians, writers, and hustlers. Though not a musician himself, Mr. Croaker quickly became a beloved figure in the jazz world, known for his charisma, adaptability, and signature blend of Southern hospitality and big city sophistication. His travels alongside jazz groups not only broadened his reach but revealed a hidden gift — finding the best soul food joints in every city they played, from New Orleans to Boston.
With a natural charm and an unmatched palate, Mr. Croaker became a tastemaker, introducing his jazz circle to little-known mom-and-pop soul food spots that soon adjusted their hours to accommodate his arrival. These relationships and experiences laid the groundwork for his own late-night joint in Harlem. Originally an exclusive after-hours space for artists and musicians during the Harlem Renaissance, it became widely known as “Croaker’s Spot.” Serving up hearty soul food and vibrant energy well into the night, it became a go-to for jazz legends like Bill “Bojangles” Robinson. The dishes — inspired by the best soul food from across the East Coast — weren’t just meals; they were moments. Today, Croaker’s Spot continues that legacy, rooted in community, culture, and the belief that there’s nothing like good food, good people, at a good spot — that’s truly happnin’.
