Owner of Famed Soul Food Restaurants Dies at 90

Owner of Renowned Soul Food Restaurants Passes Away at 90

Helen L. Coleman, a culinary icon known for her soul food restaurants in Washington, has died at the age of 90. Over her illustrious nearly 50-year career, Coleman cooked up mouth-watering classics such as oxtail and candied yams, attracting both local residents and celebrities like B.B. King to savor her delectable creations.

Coleman’s culinary journey began in Seattle, where she established eateries like Helen’s Diner and Ms. Helen’s Soul Food. Her delicious dishes drew in a loyal following, with famous figures like B.B. King and Muhammad Ali making regular appearances at her establishments.

The news of Coleman’s passing was shared by her daughter, Jesdarnel “Squirt” Henton, who fondly remembered her mother as a culinary trailblazer. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Henton announced, “My heart is full today, but I’m proud and thankful to say Ms. Helen L Coleman our Mother is at Peace in Heaven.”

Originally hailing from Texas and having spent her formative years in Oklahoma and California, Coleman brought a unique blend of flavours to the Seattle food scene when she opened Helen’s Diner in 1970. The eatery quickly became known for its signature dishes, including the mouth-watering “Mount St. Helen’s Burger.”

Despite facing challenges like bankruptcy and natural disasters that forced closures, Coleman’s passion for cooking never wavered. After the closure of Helen’s Diner, she continued to pursue her culinary dreams by opening Ms. Helen’s Soul Food in 1987, leaving an indelible mark on the local food landscape.

Coleman’s legacy lives on through her daughter, Henton, who has followed in her mother’s footsteps by continuing to serve up soulful dishes at Ms. Helen’s Soul Bistro. Despite setbacks, including a failed attempt to open another restaurant, Henton remains dedicated to preserving her mother’s culinary heritage.

In tribute to her mother’s legacy, Henton, along with her daughter Nicole Helene, now operates Ms. Helen’s Soul Bistro out of a Harley-Davidson dealership in Renton, Washington. The duo continues to share their love for soul food with customers, offering a rotating menu that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Throughout her career, Coleman’s restaurants were frequented by a host of notable personalities, from B.B. King to Ernestine Anderson. Known for her warm hospitality, Coleman greeted every customer with a friendly “Hey baby,” creating a welcoming atmosphere that made her establishments beloved by all who dined there.

As the culinary world mourns the loss of a true luminary, Helen L. Coleman’s spirit lives on through the enduring legacy of her soulful cooking. Her impact on the food industry and the hearts of those she touched will forever be remembered and cherished.