Dispute Emerges Over Future of Beloved South LA Soul Food Restaurant Chef Marilyn’s

LOS ANGELES, CA — A South Los Angeles soul food restaurant long known as Chef Marilyn’s is now at the center of a growing dispute, with conflicting accounts from its founder and the individuals currently operating the business. The situation follows a major setback for the restaurant after a reported roof collapse forced operations to halt, placing the business under financial strain and uncertainty.

In a recent public video statement, Chef Marilyn alleged that she had been “robbed” and claimed that control of her business was taken from her. She also stated that she has been repositioned as an employee within the very establishment she created.

Chef Marilyn claims Cierra Carter and Channing B. Smith advised her to restructure her business due to debts. The group agreed to form a new business entity that would separate existing liabilities, along with a revenue split that included 60% of catering income going to her in addition to 40% tied to restaurant sales. Chef Marilyn also claims she was under the impression there would be a planned 90-day review of the arrangement.

“I thought this agreement allowed me at least 40% percent ownership of my business, not nothing at all,” Chef Marilyn said. “Why would I build a business for 37-years then turn around and give it away?”

However, the two attorneys now overseeing the business have pushed back on that characterization.

According to their account, Smith and Carter initially stepped in to support Chef Marilyn during a financial crisis, including helping to secure a bankruptcy attorney. They say the business was subsequently restructured as part of a legal and financial effort to keep it afloat.

“Once we started talking more with Chef Marilyn, we realized that we had to move quickly. She was on the verge of losing her business forever because of so much outstanding debt,” the lawyers stated in their video. “Everything in the space that we are standing in would have been gone. The employees wouldn’t have had any jobs. Up until that point, the employees weren’t even being paid.”

The attorneys further claim that Chef Marilyn was given the option to participate in the newly structured business in a different capacity but instead chose to take on an employee role.

Read More: https://voiceofblackla.com/dulans-on-crenshaw-fresh-chapter-for-la-soul-food-after-2-year-closure/

At this stage, key details—including the exact terms of any agreements, ownership transfers, or legal filings—have not been independently verified.

The situation highlights broader tensions that can arise when community-rooted businesses face financial distress and outside intervention. For many in South Los Angeles, Chef Marilyn’s is more than a restaurant—it represents years of cultural and community investment.

As the dispute continues to unfold, community members are closely watching for clarity and accountability on all sides. This moment may become a story of preservation but ultimately depends on what additional facts come to light. For now, the future of Chef Marilyn’s—and the legacy behind it—remains uncertain.

Read More: https://www.chefmarilyns2638.com/order

At the time of publication, the specific terms of any signed agreements, ownership structure, and financial arrangements have not been independently verified. This story will be updated as more documentation or statements become available.