What began as a small family business founded by the Morrison parents in February 2011 has grown into one of Charlotte’s beloved soul food restaurants. After relocating from New York, the family noticed something missing: authentic soul food that tasted like home. Inspired by generations of family recipes and traditions, they set out to fill that gap.

Today, Nana Morrison’s Soul Food operates multiple locations across the Charlotte region, with plans to continue expanding, including a future location in Huntersville. Yet despite the growth, the heart of the business remains unchanged.

The restaurant’s name and recipes come from the family’s great-grandmother, lovingly known as “Nana.”

“We wanted a place where people could walk in and feel like they were stepping into Nana’s kitchen,” said Hank Morrison. “That’s the soul of what we do.”

From fried chicken, smothered pork chops and turkey wings to classic sides like macaroni and cheese, collard greens and yams, every dish is rooted in Nana’s original recipes. But as Gabriella Morrison explains, the food is only part of the experience.

“We’re not just serving food; we’re serving memories, comfort and connection,” she said.

A Family Business in the Truest Sense

What makes Nana Morrison’s unique is not only what is served on the plate but who is behind the counter.

The business is operated by four siblings, each playing a vital role in the company’s continued success.

As the eldest sibling, Shawn Morrison Jr. oversees the flagship location and helps drive operational excellence throughout the organization. A former collegiate athlete at Nyack College, Shawn brings discipline, structure and leadership to staffing, inventory management and long-term growth initiatives.

Hank Morrison serves as general manager and company spokesperson. Along with overseeing his location, he represents the brand through media appearances, community engagement and expansion efforts, helping strengthen Nana Morrison’s presence throughout the region.

Gabriella Morrison, the company’s chief operating officer, has been immersed in the family business since childhood. Known for her operational expertise and organizational skills, she oversees management across all locations while helping guide future development and growth strategies.

The youngest sibling, Aaron Morrison, is still in high school but already contributes across all restaurant locations. Having spent much of his life learning the business alongside his parents and siblings, Aaron supports staffing needs and hopes to one day operate a location of his own.

Their collaboration, they say, comes naturally.

“We were raised with family first,” Hank said. “We lived together, grew up together and worked together. Work is just a natural extension of that.”

Turning Gratitude Into Impact

As Nana Morrison’s has grown, so has the family’s desire to invest back into the community that has supported them for the past 15 years.

The Morrisons recently established a charitable fund through Foundation for the Carolinas, marking a new chapter in their commitment to philanthropy.

“For as much support as the community has given to us, it’s only right that we give it back,” Hank said.

While the family has long contributed through food donations, financial support and partnerships with organizations such as local churches, Make-A-Wish, Dress for Success and local law enforcement initiatives, this represents their first large-scale philanthropic effort. The Morrisons chose FFTC because of its expertise and guidance.

“This was our first time really getting into larger charitable giving,” Hank explained. “They help guide us through the process and do the work to ensure organizations are vetted, which makes it easier for us to focus on giving back.”

Investing in the Next Generation

When asked where they hope to make the greatest impact, the answer was immediate: youth.

The family believes strong communities are built by investing in young people and creating opportunities for future generations.

That commitment is already taking shape. Nana Morrison’s recently partnered with Hopewell High School as a sponsor and launched a back-to-school drive, encouraging customers to donate school supplies in exchange for gift cards. The donated items will benefit local students, and the family plans to expand similar partnerships to schools near each of its restaurant locations.

As the business continues to grow, so does its vision for community engagement.

Beyond serving memorable meals, the Morrison family hopes Nana Morrison’s will continue creating jobs, supporting local families and establishing itself as a lasting Charlotte institution.

For Hank, one of the most rewarding parts has been watching customers grow alongside the business.

“Being 22 years old and seeing customers who knew me as a little kid and now seeing me as a young man is incredible,” he said. “Maybe the kids who come in today will grow up with Nana’s, too. That’s probably the coolest part.”

Fifteen years after opening its doors, Nana Morrison’s Soul Food remains grounded in the values that inspired its founding: family, hospitality and community. Through its partnership with Foundation for the Carolinas, the Morrison family is ensuring that the legacy passed down from Nana will continue nourishing the Charlotte community for generations to come.

For more information about FFTC’s corporate giving options, visit fftc.org/corporate-giving.