Black on the Map Project: Phat Daddy’s on Da Tracks Gives Me My First Taste of NY Since Moving Home

By Jamar Dunnigan

Welcome to part one of my series with BBG for the Map project, as I travel to spotlight outstanding Black-owned businesses in Kanawha, Fayette, Berkeley, Cabell, Jefferson, Marion, McDowell, Mercer, Monongalia, and Raleigh counties in West Virginia. Sign up for Black on the Map here.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — After spending the last twenty years in Harlem, New York, affectionately known as one of the mayors, that time has ended. I, Wild and Wonderful, Jamar Dunnigan, moved back home to Charleston, West Virginia.

Life has a way of “LIFING.” Let’s just say it was time for a mental, physical, and spiritual reset. After accomplishing my goal of moving to NYC and pursuing my dreams in advertising and marketing, it was time for the next chapter.

For 20 years, while living in NYC, I marketed and supported many of your favorite Black-owned Businesses in Harlem, such as Red Rooster, Melbas, The Shrine, BLVD Bistro, Harlem Haberdashery, The Row, Harlem Hops, and more. 

My mouth waters thinking about all the amazing food and memories created in these Harlem staples.

Now, back home in Charleston, it’s time to make many more memories. My mouth waters again, and it’s time to explore Appalachia and all the Black culture and food I have been missing while north. 

The Story

First, Phat Daddy’s on Da Tracks is located on the West Side. The best side.

Phat Daddy’s is a welcoming American soul food-fusion restaurant in Charleston. It was founded by the dynamic trio of Cameron Cordon, Octavia Cordon, and their daughter Azelah.

Originating from New York City, this family has lived in West Virginia for two decades and opened Phat Daddy’s in 2021. “Our menu is a symphony of flavors, featuring the finest BBQ meats, including succulent beef brisket, irresistible pulled pork sandwiches, and the juiciest ribs that will leave you craving more,” says General Manager Ebony.

I had the privilege of attending the Grand Opening on April 9, 2024, and Phat Daddy’s did not disappoint. You can see the love, joy, happiness, and relief in these ribbon-cutting pictures provided by Leeshia Lee. Lee is Charleston’s hometown local and lovely photographer. We love and appreciate you.

The Vibe = Good

How does the customer feel upon entering /leaving?

Cleanliness & Decor

Food, Products, and/or Services

Friendliness & Customer Service

From when I entered to when I left, “Welcome to Phat Daddy’s, welcome to Phat Daddy’s,” was all I kept hearing. The door was on a swivel, and it was so lovely to see everyone come out and be so supportive. It takes a lot to get to this point, and Phat Daddy’s has officially opened in a more extensive and newer location. Come on, growth.

I was distracted, trying to take it all in and get some good photos for BBG. I forgot to order my food! All the seats were filled, and then here came Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin. I worried I wasn’t going to get to order. 

I waited in line, a long line, as I perused the menu. Of course, I had to start with the “Chopped Cheese,” a classic at any good deli in Harlem or New York, period.

Chopped Cheese isn’t nuttin’ but a well-seasoned hamburger with chopped onions and peppers on a roll. Add mayo, tomatoes, lettuce, and your favorite cheese, of course, and it is on. 

Phat Daddy’s delivered; it was delicious.

Phat Daddy’s on the Tracks
1634 6th Ave., Charleston, WV 25387
phatdaddyswv.com
304-982-5020
Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Eat in, pick up and delivery
Check for daily specials on Facebook:
facebook.com/phatdaddyswv