Press Release

Senator Laura Richardson Celebrates Black History Month by Honoring an Iconic Southern California Figure in the Culinary Industry

SACRAMENTO, California – February 10, 2025 – California Senator Laura Richardson (D-South Bay) has proudly selected Mr. Herbert “Herb” J. Hudson, the visionary founder of Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles, as the 35th Senate District’s distinguished honoree at the Annual Legislative Business Brunch. This prestigious event, hosted by the California Legislative Black Caucus and the California Black Business Chamber of Commerce, was held on Monday, February 10, 2025 in Sacramento.

Herb Hudson, the ingenious creator behind the internationally acclaimed Roscoe's House of Chicken 'n Waffles, established the soul food restaurant chain in Los Angeles in 1975.

“For over 42 years, Roscoe’s has delighted patrons with its savory dishes and carved out a distinct and distinguished reputation in the culinary world,” said Senator Richardson. “Mr. Hudson has not only built a world-renowned franchise, he has also created jobs, uplifted families, and supported community projects and programs, making a positive difference for so many over the years.”

Under Mr. Hudson’s dynamic leadership, the restaurant chain has flourished, expanding to seven locations throughout Southern California in the Los Angeles and Orange County regions. Roscoe's has also become an iconic part of American pop culture, being featured in various movies, TV shows, and songs. 

The restaurant has attracted many noteworthy celebrities, including Stevie Wonder, Natalie Cole, Snoop Dogg, Shaquille O’Neal, and President Barack Obama.

Mr. Hudson received an official State Senate Resolution commending him for his exceptional business leadership, unwavering community work, and remarkable culinary stewardship during the brunch.

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ABOUT

Senator Laura Richardson represents the 35th Senate District, which of Athens, Carson, Compton, Del Aire, East Rancho Dominguez, Gardena, Harbor City, Harbor Gateway, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lennox, San Pedro, Watts, Willowbrook, and Wilmington. Senator Richardson serves as the Senate’s Assistant Majority Whip, Chair of the Senate’s Budget Subcommittee #5 that deals with transportation and public safety matters, and as a member of the Transportation and Health Committees.