Black Business Month: Herman Baskerville

Tell us a little about yourself.
I moved to Richmond in 1991, stayed for about 5 years and met my wife Michelle here. I then moved to Northern Virginia for a few years, got married, and eventually moved back to the Richmond area.

I opened my first restaurant, The Corner Bar & Grill, in 2005 in the Carver community. My current restaurant, Big Herm’s Kitchen, is located at 315 N 2nd Street and has been open for 12 years.

From sun up to sun down, what’s your ideal day in RVA?
I’d go visit some of my fellow black-owned restaurants. I’d start the day with some breakfast and coffee from Urban Hang Suite. For lunch I would make my way to the Northside for Nomad’s Deli. Then finish the day with some Caribbean food from Charles Kitchen.

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What would you say is Richmond’s best-kept secret?
Shakoor’s, our 2St neighbors. They’ve been here for over 20 years and have some of the best products.

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BLK RVA is all about supporting the thriving Black businesses and culture in the Richmond region and encouraging tourists to do the same. What’s one thing every visitor MUST do/see when they come to our region.Take a walk around Jackson Ward. There's so much history and art here. It’s also home of the famous 2 Street.

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You live in Mechanisville. What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re staying close to home? Cook at home for my family.

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When we say the name BLK RVA, what does that mean to you? BLK RVA means showcasing and recognizing Black businesses that you may not have even known, and allowing you the opportunity experience and support them.

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Describe Richmond in 3 words. Cool, Diverse, Accessible.