Food as Function-The local food scene took center stage at The Function,
a barbecue and fish fry at Charlotte’s Southern Deli celebrating Virginia’s culinary heritage and the talents of Black chefs. Organized by Charlotte’s owners Nikki Gregory and Paul Polk with local food writer
James L. Ford III, the event showcased Southern traditions reimagined by some of the area’s most creative culinary voices. Leah Branch was among
the featured chefs at the event in downtown Richmond. (Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press)
