Oakland's Home of Chicken and Waffles will close its doors permanently on August 31, concluding a 23-year run for the beloved restaurant. Founder Derreck Johnson announced the closure, stating he is ready to move on from the restaurant business after nearly a quarter-century.
The restaurant first opened in 2004 at a location on Embarcadero West before relocating to its current Fourth Street address in 2024. Home of Chicken and Waffles became a staple in the community not only for its Southern cuisine but also for its commitment to employing formerly incarcerated individuals. The establishment also attracted notable figures, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Johnson expressed his personal satisfaction with the decision to close, telling SF Gate that he is "Very happy and excited about [closing]." He indicated that further details about his future endeavors would be shared in the coming months.
News of the closure prompted an outpouring of sentiment from customers on social media. Many shared memories of the restaurant's food and its impact on the community. One patron wrote on Instagram, "Awwww Derrick’s presence and food has been a legendary comfort to so many folks here! Wishing my frat brother much success and love for what comes next!" Another commented on the restaurant's community impact, stating, "job well done, you’ve helped sooooooo many of us & helped us become who we are today thank you so much for the opportunity & the love you. Poured into us all we were family & many of us are still connected looking forward to what’s to come ahead."
The closure of Home of Chicken and Waffles follows that of another Bay Area establishment, Pucquio, a Peruvian restaurant in Rockridge, which ceased operations in July after approximately 15 years. Pucquio announced its closure via Instagram, thanking customers for their patronage and the opportunity to share Peruvian flavors.