The 2023 Appreciation Award Recipient

We are honored to present the 2023 Gatsby Showcase Appreciation Award to Dr. Lance London, CEO of Big City Foods dba The Carolina Kitchen. With an illustrious career spanning 27 years, Dr. London has been the driving force behind The Carolina Kitchen Bar & Grill, a regional restaurant chain that has become synonymous with the rich flavors of Southern cuisine in the Washington D.C. Metro area.

A Culinary Visionary and Leader

Dr. Lance London’s journey began in January 1996 when he founded and took on the role of operator for Big City Foods. His commitment to providing a distinctive taste of Southern cuisine has not only made The Carolina Kitchen a local institution but has also set the stage for future expansion plans across multiple cities in the United States.

Educational Background

A graduate of Morgan State University with a degree in Graphic Design, Dr. London seamlessly blends his creative acumen with his passion for culinary excellence. His dedication to continuous learning and innovation is reflected in the success and longevity of The Carolina Kitchen.

Community Impact and Leadership

Beyond the realm of culinary accomplishments, Dr. Lance London is a community leader with a profound impact on the DMV community. This Thanksgiving, he continued his longstanding tradition of generosity by providing turkeys to over 1000 underprivileged families. His annual Christmas toy drive brings joy to countless children in need, exemplifying his commitment to giving back.

Gatsby Showcase Ambassador and 2023 Appreciation Award Recipient

Dr. Lance London served as the Gatsby Showcase Ambassador in the previous year, and we were privileged to witness his dedication to the foundation’s cause. His passion for philanthropy, coupled with his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, aligns seamlessly with the values of the Gatsby Showcase.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, the Gatsby Showcase is delighted to present Dr. Lance London with the 2023 Appreciation Award. As a true champion of our foundation’s cause, he exemplifies the spirit of generosity and community service that lies at the heart of the Gatsby Showcase mission.